Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots

Life with three energetic kids means every evening is a sprint, especially when it comes to dinner. There are days I feel like a short-order cook, juggling different preferences and trying to sneak in something wholesome. That’s exactly how the genius of these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots burst into my kitchen!

I remember one particularly chaotic Tuesday; homework was a battle, laundry was overflowing, and dinner felt miles away. My youngest, Leo, was having a “no green things” phase, and my oldest, Mia, was craving something “fun.” I needed a win, fast. That’s when I thought, what if I could make a savory bite that felt indulgent but was actually packed with good stuff?

These Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots were born out of that desperation, and honestly, they’ve become a family legend. They’re crispy, savory, unbelievably easy, and everyone, even Leo, devours them. Truly, these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots are a game-changer for busy families seeking simple, nourishing food.

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

As a mom, I constantly search for recipes that hit all the right notes: easy, healthy, and kid-approved. These Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots deliver on every single one. First, you’ll adore the sheer simplicity.

Just two core ingredients, truly! Second, they are a fantastic source of protein, helping to keep hungry bellies full and satisfied. This means fewer snack requests later!

Moreover, these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots are incredibly versatile. You can customize them with herbs or spices, making them a perfect side dish or even a light main. They bake up beautifully golden and slightly crispy, offering a delightful texture contrast. Forget complicated recipes; these simple cottage cheese tots offer maximum flavor with minimal effort.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

You’ll be amazed at how little you need to create these delicious Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots. It’s truly magic!

Ingredient	Quantity
Full-Fat Cottage Cheese	2 cups (small curd recommended)
All-Purpose Flour	½ cup
Salt	½ teaspoon (or to taste)
Black Pepper	¼ teaspoon (or to taste)

SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS

The beauty of these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots lies in their adaptability! If you need to make changes, here are some ideas. For gluten-free tots, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend or even almond flour (you might need slightly less).

To add more flavor to your cottage cheese tots, incorporate fresh chopped chives, dill, or parsley. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder also works wonders. For a spicy kick, add a tiny bit of smoked paprika or chili powder.

You can even stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese for extra umami in your savory cottage cheese bites. These easy cottage cheese tots welcome your creativity!

These cottage cheese tots are wonderfully versatile, allowing for endless customization to suit any palate. If you appreciate a simple, flavorful side that can be adapted for any meal, you might also enjoy making some Easy Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Bread.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Creating these incredible Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for perfect results.

1. Preheat Oven: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking for your cottage cheese tots.

2. Combine Ingredients: Next, in a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until just combined. Do not overmix the mixture for your Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots.

3. Form Tots: Now, scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture for each tot. Roll it gently between your palms to form a small, cylinder-like shape, similar to traditional tater tots. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture for your simple cottage cheese tots is used.

4. Bake: Finally, bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through baking for even browning.

PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS

To make your Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots truly spectacular, keep these tips in mind. First, don’t skimp on the parchment paper; it ensures a perfect release and cleanup. Second, consider draining your cottage cheese slightly if it seems very watery; this creates firmer tots.

Third, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for that ideal crispy exterior on your healthy cottage cheese tots. Don’t crowd the baking sheet; give each of the Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots space to crisp up. Finally, remember to season generously. A little extra salt and pepper truly elevates the flavor of these easy cottage cheese tots.

Following these simple tips ensures your healthy cottage cheese tots achieve that ideal crispy exterior and perfect texture. Once you’ve mastered these quick and easy bites, you might feel inspired to tackle a more gourmet culinary adventure like this Pastry Lobster Tail Recipe​.

STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS

These delightful Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots store wonderfully, making them excellent for meal prep! Once completely cooled, store leftover cottage cheese tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

An air fryer also works wonders for reheating, making your savory cottage cheese bites perfectly crisp again in just a few minutes at 350°F (175°C). We love having these simple cottage cheese tots ready for quick snacks.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE

These versatile Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots pair well with almost anything! We often enjoy them as a healthy side dish with grilled chicken or fish. They also make a fantastic appetizer served with a simple marinara sauce, ranch dip, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with herbs.

For a fun twist, serve your easy cottage cheese tots with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for breakfast. My kids love these cottage cheese tots alongside their favorite burgers or hot dogs, making mealtime a breeze. They’re also great packed in lunchboxes!

The versatility of these tots means they can complement everything from grilled chicken to scrambled eggs, making meal planning a breeze. For another crowd-pleasing side that elevates any casual dinner or gathering, be sure to try this Cheesy Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Recipe.

FAQS

Can I make these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air frying works beautifully for these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Arrange the tots in a single layer in the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. These simple cottage cheese tots crisp up perfectly!

Are these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots gluten-free?

As written, no, since the recipe uses all-purpose flour. However, you can easily make these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend or almond flour. Always check the labels on your ingredients for certified gluten-free options.

Can I prepare the Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots ahead of time?

Yes! You can form the Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots and store them uncooked on a parchment-lined plate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes your meal prep much easier.

Alternatively, bake them fully and then reheat as described in the storage section. These healthy cottage cheese tots are very forgiving.

Are these Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots healthy?

Definitely! These Two Ingredient Cottage Cheese Tots are packed with protein from the cottage cheese, making them a nutritious choice. They are baked, not fried, reducing unhealthy fats.

They offer a wholesome alternative to traditional fried tots. Enjoy these simple cottage cheese tots knowing they are good for you.

Cottage cheese tots are a simplified, protein-rich alternative to traditional potato-based tots, offering a healthy and quick snack or side. They primarily combine cottage cheese with a binding agent like flour, often baked or air-fried to achieve a crispy exterior.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)

*(Estimates based on 10 tots per recipe, using full-fat cottage cheese and all-purpose flour)*

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	105 kcal
Protein	10g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	3g
Fiber	<1g