Cheesy broccoli tots served on a plate with dipping sauce

Cheesy Broccoli Tots

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why make this recipe

These cheesy broccoli tots are simple, quick, and tasty. They make a great side dish or snack for kids and adults. You get vegetables and cheese in a fun bite. They crisp up well in the oven or air fryer and freeze nicely for later.

introduction

Cheesy Broccoli Tots use fresh broccoli and two kinds of cheese for a mild, familiar flavor. The recipe is easy to follow and uses common pantry ingredients. If you want another easy pasta idea to serve with these tots, try these campanelle recipes.

how to make Cheesy Broccoli Tots

  1. Cook the broccoli until tender-crisp by steaming or boiling. Drain well and let cool so the tots do not get soggy.
  2. Chop or pulse the broccoli in a food processor until it is finely chopped but not pureed.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the chopped broccoli with shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture holds together.
  4. Shape the mixture into small tots with wet hands or a small scoop. Press each tot gently to compact.
  5. Cook the tots by baking, air frying, or pan-frying until golden and crispy. Let cool briefly before serving.

Ingredients :

  • Fresh Broccoli Florets: (About 1 pound) The star of the show! Fresh broccoli provides the base for our tots and is packed with nutrients.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: (1 cup, packed) Adds that irresistible cheesy flavor and helps bind the tots together. Sharp or mild cheddar works beautifully.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup) Brings a salty, nutty depth of flavor and enhances the cheesy goodness.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: (1 cup) These Japanese breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, creating a delightful texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: (1/4 cup) Helps to absorb moisture and further bind the ingredients, ensuring the tots hold their shape.
  • Eggs: (2 large) Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and adding richness.
  • Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) Adds a subtle savory flavor that complements the broccoli and cheese.
  • Onion Powder: (1 teaspoon) Enhances the savory notes and adds another layer of flavor complexity.
  • Salt: (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste) Seasoning is key! Salt enhances all the flavors in the tots.
  • Black Pepper: (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste) Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor.
  • Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For baking or air frying, to prevent sticking and encourage crisping.

Directions :

  • Steaming: Place a steamer basket in a pot with about an inch of water. Bring the water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets to the steamer basket, cover, and steam for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and easily pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as mushy broccoli will make the tots soggy.
  • Boiling: Alternatively, you can boil the broccoli. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Again, be careful not to overcook.
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray the baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the broccoli tots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
  • Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the broccoli tots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy.
  • Pan-Frying (Optional): Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the broccoli tots in the skillet in a single layer, again avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tots from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Pan-frying will result in the crispiest tots but is the least healthy option.

how to serve Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Serve warm with a dipping sauce like ketchup, ranch, or a yogurt herb dip. They pair well with grilled chicken, soup, or a simple pasta. Offer them as a snack, side dish, or party finger food.

how to store Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Cool completely before storing. Store cooked tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or air fry for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. For longer storage, freeze raw tots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.

tips to make Cheesy Broccoli Tots

  • Dry the broccoli well after cooking to avoid soggy tots.
  • Use a food processor for even chopping but stop before it becomes a paste.
  • If the mixture is too loose, add more panko or a little extra flour. If too dry, add a small splash of milk or one more egg.
  • Press each tot firmly so it holds its shape while cooking.
  • Space tots apart while baking or air frying to let air circulate for better crisping.

variation

  • Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for a meaty twist.
  • Stir in chopped cooked potatoes for a softer, more tot-like texture.
  • Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
  • Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free panko and a gluten-free flour blend.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain it well, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing.

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: You can try dairy-free cheese and omit Parmesan. The texture may change, so add extra panko to help bind.

Q: How big should each tot be?
A: About 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each makes a good bite-sized tot. Adjust size for cooking time.

Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Shape the tots and freeze them on a tray. Store in a bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Broccoli Tots are an easy, family-friendly snack or side. They are simple to make and adapt. For another take on kid-friendly broccoli bites, see this helpful broccoli tots resource from Feeding Tiny Bellies.