Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots are a delightful and healthy way to enjoy vegetables, especially for those who might be hesitant to eat their greens. With crispy exteriors and gooey cheesy centers, these tots make a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Whether you’re looking to sneak in some nutrition for picky eaters or just want a tasty treat, this recipe is a game-changer.

Why Make This Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Making Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots is not just about enjoying a delicious meal; it’s also about embracing the benefits of homemade cooking. These tots are fun to prepare and even more fun to eat! They have a delightful crunch that gives way to a flavorful burst of melted cheese and tender broccoli. Plus, they’re versatile and can fit into any mealtime, making them a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. Get your family involved in the cooking process, and you’ll create not just a meal, but wonderful memories.

How to Make Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Creating these tots is straightforward and requires just a few steps to achieve that perfect crunch. The combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and Panko breadcrumbs results in a flavor-packed treat that you can feel good about serving. With minimal prep time and a quick bake in the oven, you’ll have a satisfying dish that’s ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed and finely chopped)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, very finely diced
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 4-5 minutes until tender.
3. Drain the broccoli and squeeze out any excess moisture.
4. Finely chop the broccoli into small crumbs.
5. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, beaten egg, diced onion, cheddar cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix until everything is well combined and holds its shape.
7. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form into a small cylinder shape (tot).
8. Place the formed tots on the baking sheet, spaced an inch apart.
9. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
10. Bake for 18-22 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
11. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (approximately 2 tots) contains about:

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 5g

How to Serve Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

These Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a party appetizer alongside your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli. They’re also great as a side dish next to grilled meats or roasted vegetables, adding a fun texture and flavor contrast to your plate. You can even pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy snack that kids will love!

How to Store Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

To store any leftovers, let the tots cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep for about 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

• Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the steamed broccoli to ensure your tots crisp up nicely.
• For a flavorful twist, try adding different spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• If you don’t have Panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, but Panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for a varied flavor.

Delicious Variations

• Cheesy Cauliflower Tots: Substitute half the broccoli with cauliflower for a different flavor and texture.
• Spicy Broccoli Tots: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper to give your tots a bit of heat.
• Italian Style: Incorporate dried Italian herbs and replace the cheddar with mozzarella and parmesan for an Italian twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it first and drain any excess moisture.

2. Can I make these tots ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and shape the tots. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

3. How do I know when the tots are done?
   They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. A good test is to give them a gentle poke; they should feel firm.

4. What dipping sauces go well with these tots?
   Try ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a spicy ketchup for a delicious combination.

5. How can I make vegetarian-friendly versions?
   This recipe is already vegetarian, but be sure to use non-animal rennet cheese if needed.

6. Can these tots be cooked in an air fryer?
   Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and cook them for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

7. What can I substitute for cheese?
   For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.

8. Can I use whole wheat breadcrumbs?
   Yes, whole wheat breadcrumbs are a great healthier option that will still yield good results.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, substitute Panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    The oven works best for reheating to maintain crunchiness—heat at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots are more than just a tasty dish; they pack hidden nutrition in a fun and flavorful way. Their delightful crunch and cheesy goodness make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a party snack. Give this recipe a try, and watch how quickly they disappear! We’d love to hear about your experience making them, so feel free to share your thoughts and any variations you tried! Enjoy your cooking!

Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Delightful and healthy broccoli tots with a crispy exterior and gooey cheesy center, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American, Vegetarian

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped Ensure to squeeze out moisture
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, very finely diced
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil For greasing the baking sheet

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 4-5 minutes until tender.
3. Drain the broccoli and squeeze out any excess moisture.
4. Finely chop the broccoli into small crumbs.
5. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, beaten egg, diced onion, cheddar cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix until everything is well combined and holds its shape.

Baking

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a small cylinder shape (tot).
2. Place the formed tots on the baking sheet, spaced an inch apart.
3. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
4. Bake for 18-22 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
5. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli. They can be packed in lunchboxes as a healthy snack. For storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for about 2 months.