If you are looking for a delightfully simple yet incredibly tasty snack that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, this 3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe is absolutely a must-try. These crispy, golden bites bring together creamy cottage cheese, tender cauliflower rice, and nutty Parmesan cheese to create little lumps of cheesy goodness that are as satisfying as they are healthy. Not only do they satisfy those comfort food cravings, but they do so without wrecking your keto goals. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned follower, these tots will quickly become a favorite the whole family will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things delightfully straightforward, this recipe uses just three essential ingredients that work in harmony to give you flavor, texture, and satisfying richness. Each ingredient plays an important role in making these tots perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
- 4% High Protein Cottage Cheese (1 cup): Use the high protein variety for a creamier texture and extra nutrition; draining it well is key to avoid sogginess.
- Frozen Cauliflower Rice (12 oz/340g bag): Defrosted and cooked to remove moisture, cauliflower acts as the low-carb substitute for traditional tot potatoes.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, divided): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps bind the mixture while creating a beautifully crisp topping.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cottage Cheese
Start by draining the cottage cheese in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to release any excess liquid. This step is crucial for ensuring your tots hold their shape without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower Rice
Place the frozen cauliflower rice into a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until thoroughly defrosted and most of the moisture has evaporated, about 7 to 10 minutes. You’ll want the cauliflower to look dry and have a slight golden-brown color for the best texture and flavor.
Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese
Transfer the drained cottage cheese to a mini blender and blend until smooth and creamy. This will help the cheese incorporate evenly, giving your tots a luscious, tender interior.
Step 4: Mix Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan cheese, and the cooled cauliflower rice. Stir everything until fully incorporated into a cohesive batter.
Step 5: Form Your Tots
Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, shape the mixture into traditional tater tot shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about half to one inch apart to allow for even baking.
Step 6: Bake and Brown
Bake the tots in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes. After this first bake, they should hold their shape and start browning lightly on top. Sprinkle the rest of the Parmesan cheese over each tot—about half a teaspoon per piece—and return them to the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until beautifully crispy and golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the tots to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving to help them firm up. These are best enjoyed warm, crispy, and paired with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A light drizzle of garlic aioli or a dollop of sour cream can make these tots irresistible. Adding a hint of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving boosts the overall taste without overpowering.
Side Dishes
These tots shine as a versatile side, perfect to accompany a crisp green salad or a bowl of creamy soup. For a hearty meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon, making sure to keep everything keto-friendly yet satisfying. They also pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for added fiber and flavor complexity.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your 3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe into a party hit by serving them skewered with small cocktail sticks alongside an array of dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo, tangy mustard, or classic ranch. Another fun idea is to build a loaded tot “nacho” plate with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of green onions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any tots left over, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They stay good for up to 3 days and can be reheated to enjoy the same crispy texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the tots on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps keep the tots from sticking together so you can grab just what you need. Frozen tots keep well for up to 1 month.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover or frozen tots is in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures they regain their crispness without becoming soggy, unlike microwaving which often softens them.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cauliflower, simply pulse florets in a food processor until they resemble rice. Be sure to cook and dry the cauliflower thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Definitely! The familiar tater tot shape and cheesy, mild flavor tend to be a crowd-pleaser, even for kids. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some veggies in there.
Can I make these tots dairy-free?
This version relies on cottage cheese and Parmesan, so it’s not dairy-free. However, you can experiment with dairy-free cheeses and plant-based alternatives, though the texture may vary.
What dipping sauces pair best with these tots?
Classic choices include ranch, garlic mayo, or spicy ketchup alternatives. You can also try a keto-friendly cheese sauce or even a tangy mustard dip to complement their flavor.
Can I add herbs or spices to the recipe?
Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or fresh herbs into the batter before baking to customize the flavor to your liking.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe the 3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe is one of those simple marvels that prove healthy food can be both easy and utterly delicious. They bring the comfort of classic tots with a keto-friendly twist that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. Next time you want a snack or side that’s crispy, cheesy, and low in carbs, give this recipe a go. It’s bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe
These 3 Ingredient Keto Cottage Cheese Tots are a delicious, low-carb snack perfect for keto and high-protein diets. Made with cottage cheese, cauliflower rice, and parmesan cheese, these crispy tater tot-style bites are baked to golden perfection and make a great healthy appetizer or side dish.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 26 tots
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) 4% high protein cottage cheese
- 1 (12oz/340g) bag frozen cauliflower rice
- 1 cup (94g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Drain Cottage Cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl and let it drain for 5-10 minutes to remove excess liquid, ensuring a better texture for the tots.
- Cook Cauliflower Rice: Add the frozen cauliflower rice to a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 7-10 minutes until fully defrosted and most moisture has evaporated. The cauliflower should be dry and lightly browned. Transfer it to a bowl and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Blend Cottage Cheese: Add the drained cottage cheese to a mini blender and blend until smooth and creamy, which helps in binding the ingredients together.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the blended cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan, and cooled cauliflower rice until well combined.
- Shape Tots: Using a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and form each into a tater tot shape. Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1/2 to 1 inch apart. Repeat until all batter is used.
- Bake Part One: Bake the tots for 20 minutes until they start holding their shape and lightly brown on the surface.
- Add Parmesan Topping: Remove the tots from the oven and sprinkle approximately ½ teaspoon of the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of each tot. Not all remaining cheese needs to be used.
- Bake Part Two: Return the tots to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the tots cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce. For best texture, serve soon while still crispy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Notes
- Draining the cottage cheese is crucial to remove excess moisture and achieve the right tot consistency.
- Cooking the cauliflower rice until dry and lightly browned helps prevent sogginess in the tots.
- Using a small cookie scoop ensures uniform tot size and even baking.
- These tots are best enjoyed immediately but can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Feel free to experiment with seasonings or add herbs to the mixture for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
