A flavorful, crispy snack or side dish, these Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots offer a satisfying low-carb twist on the classic tater tot. Packed with riced cauliflower, melted cheddar, smoky bacon, and green onions, they deliver all the cheesy indulgence without the heavy starch, making them a hit for parties, meal prep, or family-friendly snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cauliflower tots are a perfect blend of healthy and indulgent. They’re oven-baked, not fried, making them lighter while still offering a satisfying crunch. Loaded with cheddar and bacon, they have a rich, savory flavor and a soft yet structured bite. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet—or simply looking for a creative way to enjoy vegetables—these tots make an excellent appetizer or side dish that’s easy to prepare and fun to eat.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cauliflower, finely riced and steamed
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Green onions, finely chopped
Cooked bacon, crumbled
Almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
Egg, lightly beaten
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the steamed riced cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent sogginess.
In a large bowl, mix the cauliflower, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, green onions, bacon, almond flour, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape into small cylinders resembling classic tater tots.
Arrange the tots on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or brush them with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are golden and crisp on the outside.
Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as ranch or ketchup.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20 tots
Calories: About 95 kcal per tot

Variations

Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh parsley, dill, or chives for a herbal twist.
Different Cheese: Try pepper jack or gouda in place of cheddar for a new flavor profile.
Air Fryer Method: Cook the tots in an air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese, plant-based bacon, and a flax egg substitute.

storage/reheating

Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or air fry for 4–5 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve their crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?

Yes, but be sure to steam and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture before mixing.

Can I freeze the tots?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. Place on a tray to freeze individually, then store in a sealed bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

What’s the best dip for these tots?

Ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or ketchup are all great options, depending on your taste preferences.

Are these tots gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, you can shallow fry them in oil over medium heat until golden brown, though this increases the calorie content.

Is almond flour necessary?

Almond flour helps bind the mixture and adds texture. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or coconut flour if preferred.

How do I prevent the tots from falling apart?

Make sure to squeeze out all moisture from the cauliflower and don’t skip the egg—it helps bind the ingredients.

Can I use a food processor to rice the cauliflower?

Yes, pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor is an effective method for ricing.

Are these keto-friendly?

Yes, they are low in carbs and suitable for a ketogenic diet, especially when made with almond flour.

Can I serve these cold?

They are best enjoyed hot and crispy, but you can also serve them at room temperature for party platters.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots are a creative, satisfying alternative to traditional potato-based snacks. With bold flavors, a crisp texture, and a wholesome ingredient list, they fit seamlessly into low-carb and gluten-free lifestyles while still feeling like comfort food. Whether you’re prepping for a gathering or looking for a savory bite between meals, these tots are sure to be a favorite.

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