Broccoli Tots are the ultimate way to turn those everyday green florets into crispy, cheesy, finger-friendly bites of joy! They’re quick to whip up, absolutely crave-worthy, and perfect for everything from weeknight snacking to sneaking extra veggies into your kids’ lunches. Trust me—no one can resist these golden, savory, poppable treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Golden: These Broccoli Tots bake up with irresistibly crisp edges while staying tender and cheesy inside.
- Veggie-Packed: Each tot is a sneaky, satisfying way to enjoy more broccoli, even if you’re feeding picky eaters.
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you’ll need less than 40 minutes to have a fresh batch on the table.
- Totally Customizable: Change up the cheese or spices to make them your own every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Broccoli Tots come together in a flash with just a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a special role. Here’s why every element in the mix helps make these tots beautifully crispy, golden, and full of flavor.
- Broccoli florets: The vibrant star of the show—steamed (or boiled), chopped, and packed with color, nutrients, and subtle flavor.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar is classic, melting into the tots for dreamy, gooey richness and a savory edge.
- Egg: Binds everything together, making sure each tot holds its shape as it bakes.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These provide crunch and structure—panko is especially airy, giving you that coveted crispy bite.
- Garlic powder: Adds gentle, warming flavor that complements the broccoli and cheese.
- Onion powder: For a bit of savory depth and that signature tot taste.
- Salt (optional): Rounds out all the flavors; adjust according to taste or skip for lower-sodium needs.
Variations
One of my favorite things about Broccoli Tots is how easy they are to riff on. With a simple ingredient swap or flavor twist, you can customize them perfectly for your dietary needs or cravings.
- Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile or to lower sodium for little ones.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for tots with a gentle kick.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or even finely ground oats to keep them friendly for all eaters.
- Hidden Veggies: Sneak in finely minced carrots or cauliflower for even more veggie goodness in every bite.
How to Make Broccoli Tots
Step 1: Steam and Chop the Broccoli
Start by softening the broccoli florets. Microwave them with a splash of water for a few minutes or simmer in boiling water until they’re fork-tender. Once drained, chop the florets into tiny pieces—go as fine as you like for a more “tot-like” feel. Kitchen scissors, a knife, or a quick pulse in the food processor all work!
Step 2: Mix the Tots Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your finely chopped broccoli with shredded cheese, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt if you like. Stir everything until it comes together into a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture—this is where all the flavors start to mingle!
Step 3: Shape the Tots
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and press them gently into classic tot shapes using your hands. Lay them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they crisp up on all sides.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remember to shake or flip the pan halfway through for even browning. In just a few minutes, the kitchen fills with irresistible toasty-cheesy aromas, and you’ll see those Broccoli Tots turn perfectly golden.
Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Tots
- Fine Chop, Big Texture: The finer you chop (or pulse) the broccoli, the more cohesive—yet still tender—your tots will become. Leave a few small chunks for extra bite!
- Don’t Skimp on Squeezing: After cooking, be sure to drain excess water from the broccoli to avoid soggy tots and ensure maximum crispiness.
- Flip for Golden Perfection: Rotate or gently flip the tots at the halfway mark to achieve that even browning all over.
- Get Creative with Cheese: Don’t be afraid to mix cheddar with sharper varieties or milder mozzarella for unique flavor twists.
How to Serve Broccoli Tots
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a dash of cracked black pepper, or even a touch of fresh parsley brings out the color and makes the tots extra inviting. For a fun twist, swirl a little sriracha or your favorite herb-infused dip over the plate just before serving!
Side Dishes
Pair Broccoli Tots with a big salad, a steaming bowl of tomato soup, or even simple grilled chicken for an easy, family-friendly meal. They’re right at home alongside burgers or sandwiches too!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve them in cute paper cones for after-school snacks, pile on a platter with toothpicks for parties, or tuck them into lunchboxes with tiny dipping sauces. Don’t forget—they’re fantastic dipped in ketchup, ranch, or spicy aioli!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool your Broccoli Tots completely, then stash any extras in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—ready for snacking anytime!
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooked (and fully cooled) tots in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll hold up beautifully for up to 2 months, making future snacks a breeze.
Reheating
Pop chilled or frozen tots on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for 8–10 minutes (longer if frozen) until heated through and crispy again. The air fryer works wonders, too—just a few minutes to revive that crunchy edge!
FAQs
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Can I use frozen broccoli to make Broccoli Tots?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain frozen broccoli thoroughly before using, then proceed as usual. It works great and can save you prep time.
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What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar gives the classic flavor and melty texture, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp blend are delicious, too—use what you have or love best.
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How do I make Broccoli Tots gluten-free?
Substitute gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs, or pulse old-fashioned oats into fine crumbs—they’ll bind the mixture just as well and maintain a great crispy texture.
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Can I air fry Broccoli Tots instead of baking?
You sure can! Arrange the tots in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden and crispy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly veggie side or snack, give these Broccoli Tots a try. They’re pure comfort, so easy to make, and a surefire way to add a burst of green to your table. I hope they become a new favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Broccoli Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 28 tots 1x
- Category: Snack/Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Broccoli Tots are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tater tots. Packed with broccoli and cheese, they make a perfect snack or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Broccoli Tots:
- 12 oz broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Broccoli: Microwave or boil broccoli until soft, then finely chop.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine broccoli, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Shape Tots: Form mixture into tot shapes and place on a baking pan.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until slightly browned.
Notes
- I used kitchen scissors to chop up the florets, but you can also use a food processor or blender for smaller pieces.
- Cheddar cheese adds great flavor, but mozzarella is a low-sodium alternative for babies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tot
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
