Broccoli Tots with Cheese

Name: Broccoli Tots with Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets; 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking/frying)

Author: Tessa

Published: July 29, 2025

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Broccoli tots have been a game-changer in my kitchen, especially when I’m looking for a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor or fun. I used to struggle with getting enough veggies into my day, and let’s be honest, sometimes plain steamed broccoli just doesn’t cut it. That’s when I started experimenting, trying to find a way to make vegetables exciting, and these homemade broccoli tots were the delicious result of that quest.

They’re crispy on the outside, wonderfully tender on the inside, and packed with so much cheesy goodness. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying and easy to achieve. Get ready to fall in love with a snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love These Delicious Broccoli Tots

These broccoli tots are more than just a tasty snack; they’re a win-win for your taste buds and your health. Here’s why I know you’ll adore them:

Quick & Easy: They come together in under 35 minutes!
Healthy Alternative: A fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies.
Versatile Delight: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light lunch.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters often can’t resist these cheesy bites.

The Perfect Snack: Broccoli Tots

These broccoli tots truly are the perfect snack for any time of day. They’re satisfying without being heavy, packed with nutrients, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re fueling up after a workout or need a healthy bite for the kids, these tots hit the spot every time.

Essential Ingredients for Your Broccoli Tots

Making delicious broccoli tots starts with having the right ingredients on hand. You’ll find most of these are likely already in your pantry or fridge, making this a super convenient recipe. For the star of the show, you’ll need 2 cups of finely chopped broccoli florets. This is crucial for tots that hold together well. Then, to bind everything and add that irresistible flavor, gather 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 large egg, beaten. For seasoning, grab 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and of course, salt to taste and black pepper to taste. Finally, you’ll need about 1 tablespoon of olive oil for baking or pan-frying to get that perfect crispiness.

Broccoli Tots - detail 1

What You Need for Crispy Broccoli Tots

To create these amazing broccoli tots, you’ll need a handful of fresh produce like broccoli, alongside common pantry staples such as breadcrumbs, a large egg, and your preferred cheese. These simple items are the foundation for truly crispy and flavorful tots.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Broccoli Tots

Making these broccoli tots is incredibly straightforward, but following these steps carefully will ensure they turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time. We’ll start with getting your oven ready, then move on to mixing, shaping, and finally, cooking these little gems until they’re golden brown. Don’t rush the preheating or the mixing, as those small details make a big difference in the final texture of your tots.

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to a nice hot 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a baking sheet or, even better, line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Having everything ready before you start mixing means less stress and a smoother cooking process, which is always my goal in the kitchen!

Preparing Your Broccoli Tots Mixture

Now for the fun part: bringing all those wonderful ingredients together! In a large bowl, combine your finely chopped broccoli, that lovely grated cheddar cheese, the breadcrumbs, your beaten egg, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s all well combined. You want a mixture that sticks together easily when you press it, which is key for forming perfect broccoli tots.

Baking or Frying Your Broccoli Tots to Perfection

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form and cook your broccoli tots. Take small amounts of the mixture and shape them into little tot-shaped cylinders with your hands. Place them neatly on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through so they get golden brown and crispy on all sides. If you prefer to pan-fry, heat about a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook until golden and crisp, turning occasionally. Either way, serve these amazing broccoli tots hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

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Tips for Success with Your Broccoli Tots

Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful broccoli tots is easier than you think, especially with a few insider tips. One common question I get is about using frozen broccoli. Absolutely! Just remember to thaw it completely and, this is critical, squeeze out as much excess water as you possibly can. A clean kitchen towel works wonders here. Too much moisture will lead to soggy tots that don’t crisp up properly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your cheese choice either; while cheddar is classic, mozzarella gives a lovely stretch, and parmesan adds a salty, nutty punch. For those who like a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the batter adds a wonderful, subtle heat to your broccoli tots.

Making the Best Broccoli Tots

To truly elevate your broccoli tots, focus on finely chopping the broccoli – smaller pieces bind better and cook more evenly. Don’t skimp on the seasoning; a good balance of garlic, salt, and pepper makes all the difference. And always, always make sure your baking sheet is well-greased or lined; this ensures a golden, crispy bottom without any sticking.

Broccoli Tots: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I get a lot of questions about these broccoli tots, and I love helping you make them perfectly! Here are some of the most common things people ask, covering everything from prep to serving. Knowing these little tricks can really elevate your experience with these delicious and healthy vegetable tots.

Can I Prepare Broccoli Tots Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture for your broccoli tots up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just form and bake/fry as usual. Cooked broccoli tots also reheat beautifully in an oven or air fryer.

What Dipping Sauces Go Well with Broccoli Tots?

Oh, the dipping possibilities are endless for these savory broccoli tots! My personal favorites include a classic marinara sauce, a tangy Greek yogurt dip with dill, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a little kick. Ranch dressing is always a crowd-pleleaser, especially for the kids, and a simple garlic aioli is wonderfully sophisticated.

Nutritional Information for Your Broccoli Tots

While I strive to provide helpful information, please remember that the nutritional values for these broccoli tots are estimates. Factors like the specific brands of cheese and breadcrumbs you use, and even the size of your broccoli florets, can cause variations. This information is intended as a general guide, not a precise dietary analysis.

Share Your Broccoli Tots Creation

I absolutely adore seeing your culinary adventures! Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these fantastic broccoli tots, I’d love for you to share your experience. Drop a comment below, rate the recipe, or even better, snap a photo and share your broccoli tots on social media. Don’t forget to tag me so I can see your delicious work!