Save These cheesy broccoli tots transform a classic comfort food into a veggie-packed treat kids and adults love Crunchy on the outside creamy inside and loaded with broccoli and gooey cheese these bites make an easy snack or fun vegetable side dish for any meal
I started making these after my youngest declared war on all things green In tot form broccoli disappears in a flash and now we fight over the last one at the table
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets fresh or frozen chopped: This is the star use vibrant green broccoli that is firm to the touch for best taste Steam lightly to bring out its sweetness without losing crunch
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings decadent melt and classic cheesy flavor Go for sharp cheddar for bolder taste or mild if you prefer
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty depth and extra savory punch Choose real Parmigiano Reggiano for the best melt and nutty finish
- Breadcrumbs regular or panko: Both work but panko gives crispier texture Use fresh dry breadcrumbs for maximum crunch and look for golden brown color
- Large eggs: Binds everything together Choose large eggs check for clean crackfree shells
- Garlic powder: Provides warmth and subtle aromatic lift Opt for finely ground powder with no clumps
- Onion powder: Layers in more rounded flavor Use fresh powder for best aroma
- Salt: Balances the flavors and lets the cheese shine Try to use fine sea salt which disperses best
- Black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and complexity Freshly ground is best for lively flavor
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius Make sure to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it This prevents the tots from sticking and helps get that golden crust
- Steam and Chop Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets using a steamer or microwave for about three to four minutes until just fork tender Be careful not to overcook as you want them bright green and still holding shape After cooling chop them very finely so they blend seamlessly into the mixture
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl combine chopped broccoli cheddar cheese Parmesan cheese breadcrumbs eggs garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Use a fork or clean hands to mix thoroughly until you have a cohesive sticky mixture The mixture should hold together easily when pressed
- Shape the Tots:
- Take about one tablespoon of mixture at a time and form small oval shapes like classic tots Packing them tightly will help them stay together during baking Line up each formed tot on the prepared baking sheet leaving a little space between each for even cooking
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for twenty two to twenty five minutes Flip each tot halfway through to ensure crispiness on all sides The tots are ready when golden brown and crispy on the exterior
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the tots cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet This sets their shape and makes them easier to handle Serve warm for the best cheesy melt
Pin it Broccoli is my favorite here both because it soaks up the cheese and because it reminds me of weekend lunch prep with my daughter She always loved sprinkling in the cheese and sneaking pieces before they hit the oven
Storage Tips
Leftover broccoli tots can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days When ready to enjoy again pop them back in the oven or toaster oven for five minutes to restore crispiness If you need to store longer freeze them on a tray then pack in freezer bags for up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of cheddar mozzarella works even though the flavor will be a bit milder For extra color and nutrition mixed cauliflower can blend right in For gluten free diets simply swap breadcrumbs for a certified gluten free version
Serving Suggestions
These tots are perfect alongside veggie burgers as part of a lunchbox or with classic dips like ketchup ranch or honey mustard For a fun appetizer serve with a small bowl of sriracha mayo They are also great tucked into wraps or used to top salads for a textural twist
Pin it These broccoli tots are guaranteed to become a family favorite with their delicious crunch and cheesy goodness Make an extra batch, because they go fast!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you keep the broccoli tots crispy?
For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tots with oil before baking and use panko breadcrumbs for crunch.
- → Can frozen broccoli be used?
Yes, thaw and chop frozen broccoli just as you would fresh. Drain well after steaming to prevent excess moisture.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Ketchup, ranch, barbecue sauce, or aioli all work great for dipping these savory bites.
- → How can I make these gluten-free?
Simply use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and check cheese labels for hidden gluten ingredients.
- → Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
You can mix ingredients up to a day ahead, then form and bake the tots when ready to serve for best texture.
- → What other cheeses work well?
Try mozzarella for mild meltiness or add a spicy kick with pepper jack cheese.