Deliciously Simple Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Tots!
Hey there! If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for any time of day, you’ve come to the right place. I can’t wait to share with you my favorite two-ingredient cottage cheese tots! They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat!
Why I Love These Tots
These little bites of goodness are fantastic because they require minimal ingredients, and they can be made in the air fryer in just minutes! Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some protein from the cottage cheese while enjoying the comforting taste of potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a snack, an appetizer, or even a side dish, these tots will not disappoint. They’re quick, easy, and make for a fun meal prep idea too!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s talk about why these cottage cheese tots aren’t just delicious, but also a pretty smart choice for a snack. Cottage cheese is packed with protein, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. It’s low in calories while being rich in calcium, which is great for your bones. Plus, using grated potatoes adds some fiber to your diet, making these tots a wholesome snack option. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy crispy fried snacks without the added guilt, this is it!
Fun Variations to Try
- Spice It Up: Add some garlic powder or onion powder to the cottage cheese mixture for an extra flavor kick.
- Add Cheese: Mix in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for even cheesier bites!
- Herb Lovers: If you’re a fan of herbs, feel free to throw in some dried oregano, basil, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a fun twist.
Your Easy Cottage Cheese Tots Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup frozen or fresh grated potatoes (or hash browns)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional for garnish)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for air frying)
- Marinara sauce or ketchup (for dipping)
Instructions
- Grab a mixing bowl and combine the cottage cheese and grated potatoes. Mix well until it’s all evenly blended—trust me, the texture is going to be just right!
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and give it another good stir to spread out the seasoning.
- If you’re feeling fancy, fold in some chopped fresh chives or parsley for a hit of color and flavor!
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C)—this is key for those perfectly crispy tots!
- Now, form the potato-cottage cheese mixture into small, bite-sized tots, about 1-2 inches long. Get creative—each tot doesn’t have to be perfect!
- Lightly spray or brush your air fryer basket with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. The last thing we want is for our lovely tots to cling to the basket.
- Carefully place the formed tots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Remember, don’t overcrowd them; you can cook them in batches if needed!
- Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Yum!
- Once they’re cooked, carefully take them out of the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate.
- Serve them hot with marinara sauce or ketchup on the side for dipping—whatever floats your boat! Enjoy your delicious snack!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can mash the cottage cheese slightly before mixing with the potatoes; it makes for a creamier interior!
- These tots are best enjoyed fresh and hot from the air fryer, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- To reheat them, toss them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get that crispiness back!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make these tasty tots:
- An air fryer (the star of the show!)
- A mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- A spoon or spatula for mixing
- A spray bottle or brush for oiling the air fryer basket
- A serving plate to present your delicious tots!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen? Absolutely! Just make sure you grate them well, and you might need to squeeze out excess moisture to keep the mixture from being too watery.
- What dipping sauces pair well with these tots? Marinara sauce and ketchup are classics, but ranch dressing, spicy sriracha, or even a garlic aioli can be delicious!
- Can I bake these instead of air fry? Yes! Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- What other herbs can I use? Feel free to experiment with any herbs you like! Dill, cilantro, or basil could all enhance the flavor wonderfully.
- Can I freeze these tots? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked tots! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Enjoy Your Cooking Adventure!
I hope you’re just as excited as I am to whip up these delightful cottage cheese tots! Don’t forget to get creative with your own variations, and let me know how they turn out! If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, I’d love for you to share your experience on social media. Follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and kitchen inspiration!
