Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli Cheddar Tots are a delicious and healthier twist on classic tater tots, packed with fresh broccoli and melted cheddar cheese. They make a perfect snack or side dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Steam or boil broccoli until tender, then drain and let cool slightly. Once cool, chop it finely.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Step 4: Using your hands, form small cylindrical shapes (like mini logs) from the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Step 5: Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Step 6: Let cool slightly before serving. These tots can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, spray the tots lightly with cooking spray before baking.
• Try mixing in some finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor.
• To make these tots gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• Serve with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty twist.

Storage

Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness or microwave briefly if in a hurry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before using.

Can these tots be made ahead and frozen?

Absolutely. Form the tots and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Broccoli Cheddar Tots Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 750 reviews

These Broccoli Cheddar Tots are a delicious and healthier twist on traditional tater tots, featuring tender broccoli florets mixed with sharp cheddar cheese and flavorful spices. Baked to golden perfection, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect snack or side dish that both kids and adults will love.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 20 tots 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli Cheddar Tots Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or regular)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the tots from sticking and promote even browning.
2. Cook Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until they are tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain thoroughly and allow them to cool slightly before chopping finely to ensure they mix well with other ingredients.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined and holds together well.
4. Form Tots: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small cylindrical logs or bite-sized tots. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Bake: Bake the tots in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior. Keep an eye to avoid burning.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the tots to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. These can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Notes

• Ensure broccoli is well-drained to prevent sogginess.
• For extra crispiness, spray tots lightly with cooking spray before baking.
• Leftover tots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, bake in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Keywords: Broccoli Tots, Cheddar Cheese Tots, Healthy Snack, Baked Tots, Easy Vegetarian Snack, Kid-friendly Snack