Air frying frozen cauliflower tots is a quick and easy way to enjoy this veggie side. With just an air fryer, frozen cauliflower tots can be perfectly crispy and delicious in 15-20 minutes. Here’s a guide on how long to air fry frozen cauliflower tots for ideal results.
Air Fryer Time and Temperature for Frozen Cauliflower Tots
Most frozen cauliflower tots require about 15-20 minutes in the air fryer at 400°F. However, exact timing can vary a bit depending on:
- Size of the cauliflower tots – Larger tots may take a couple minutes longer.
- Amount being cooked – Cooking a larger batch may add a minute or two.
- Air fryer model – Different air fryers heat up at slightly different rates.
Refer to your air fryer manual and the cauliflower tot package instructions for specific recommended time and temp. In general though, 400°F for around 15-20 minutes will crisp up frozen cauliflower tots perfectly.
Tips for Air Frying Frozen Cauliflower Tots
Follow these tips for the best air fried frozen cauliflower tots:
- Let the tots sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before air frying. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Toss the tots lightly in oil before air frying. A teaspoon or two of olive oil or avocado oil helps crisp them up.
- Use a single layer and avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding prevents even crisping.
- Flip/shake halfway during cooking to ensure all sides get crispy.
- Check for doneness a couple minutes early. Frozen tots can overcook quickly.
- Let the cooked tots drain on paper towels before serving.
Serving Tips
Enjoy your perfectly cooked frozen cauliflower tots in all kinds of ways:
- As a side to grilled or roasted meats, fish, etc.
- Tossed in buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for appetizers.
- Topped with parmesan cheese, chili flakes and cilantro.
- Added to soups, stews or casseroles.
- Mixed into rice or quinoa bowls.
Air frying makes it so easy to enjoy frozen veggie tots like cauliflower. In just 15-20 minutes, you can have perfectly cooked, crispy cauliflower tots ready to enjoy in all kinds of meals and snacks.
Common Questions about Air Frying Frozen Cauliflower Tots
Should I preheat my air fryer for frozen cauliflower tots?
It’s not necessary to preheat your air fryer when cooking frozen cauliflower tots. You can simply place the frozen tots in the basket and set the time and temperature as recommended. The air fryer will heat up quickly as it starts cooking.
Do I need to flip frozen cauliflower tots when air frying?
It’s recommended to flip or shake the cauliflower tots at least once midway during air frying. This helps ensure even cooking and crisping on all sides of the tots.
Can I cook other frozen veggie tots the same way?
Yes, the same instructions apply to other frozen veggie tots like broccoli tots or sweet potato tots. Cook at 400°F for around 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Adjust time as needed for different tot sizes and your air fryer model.
Should I spray or oil the air fryer basket for cauliflower tots?
Lightly brushing or spraying the air fryer basket with oil can help prevent sticking. You can use an oil mister or brush the basket lightly with olive oil or avocado oil before adding the tots.
Conclusion
Air frying makes enjoying frozen veggie tots like cauliflower so fast and easy. In just 15-20 minutes at 400°F, you can have perfectly cooked, crispy cauliflower tots ready to eat and enjoy. Follow these simple tips for air frying success with frozen cauliflower tots or any other frozen veggie tot variety.