Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots

Confession time: getting my kids to eat vegetables has always been a bit of a battlefield. We’ve tried everything – hiding veggies in sauces, making fun shapes, even the dreaded “one bite” rule. And while some strategies work occasionally, nothing has been quite as universally loved in our house as these Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots. Seriously, from the moment these golden-brown nuggets emerged from the oven, the aroma of cheesy goodness filled the kitchen, and the kids were practically fighting over who got to try them first. Even my vegetable-averse spouse couldn’t resist popping a few (okay, maybe more than a few!). What’s so magical about these tots? Well, they take the sometimes-polarizing broccoli and transform it into a fun, dippable, and utterly delicious snack or side dish. The cheesy flavor masks any hint of “broccoli-ness” for the picky eaters, while the crispy baked exterior and tender inside make them irresistible for everyone. And the best part? They are baked, not fried, making them a much healthier alternative to traditional potato tots. If you’re looking for a way to sneak more veggies into your family’s diet, or simply want a tasty and crowd-pleasing appetizer, look no further. These Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots are about to become your new go-to recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Broccoli Magic

Here’s a simple list of ingredients you’ll need to create these cheesy broccoli wonders. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples, making this recipe super accessible!

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: (About 1 large head or 1 pound) – The star of the show! Fresh broccoli provides the bulk and nutritional goodness of these tots. You can also use frozen broccoli florets, just ensure they are thawed and squeezed dry.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: (1 cup) – The cheesy glue that binds everything together and adds that irresistible cheesy flavor. Sharp cheddar is recommended for a bolder taste, but mild or a blend will also work.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup) – Adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor and contributes to the crispy exterior. Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture.
• Breadcrumbs: (1/2 cup) – Helps to absorb moisture and create a light and crispy texture. Panko breadcrumbs will give a particularly crunchy result, but regular breadcrumbs work well too. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for dietary restrictions.
• Egg: (1 large) – Acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together and adding richness.
• Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) – Adds a savory, aromatic touch that complements the cheese and broccoli.
• Onion Powder: (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the savory flavor profile and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Salt: (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste) – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: (1/4 teaspoon, or to taste) – Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: (For baking sheet) – Prevents the tots from sticking to the baking sheet and promotes even browning.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Ready to transform these simple ingredients into delicious broccoli tots? Follow these easy step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be enjoying a batch of cheesy goodness in no time!

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the fresh broccoli florets thoroughly. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent soggy tots. Overly wet broccoli will make the mixture too loose.
2. Cook the Broccoli: There are a few ways to cook the broccoli. You can steam it until tender-crisp, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can blanch it by briefly boiling it for 2-3 minutes and then immediately plunging it into ice water to stop the cooking process and retain its vibrant green color. Another method is to roast the broccoli at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until tender-crisp with slightly browned edges, which adds a deeper flavor. Whichever method you choose, ensure the broccoli is cooked until it is tender enough to mash easily but not mushy.
3. Finely Chop or Pulse the Broccoli: Once the broccoli is cooked and slightly cooled, you need to break it down into small pieces. You can finely chop it with a knife, ensuring all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking and texture in the tots. For a quicker method, you can pulse the cooked broccoli in a food processor. Be careful not to over-process it into a puree; you want small pieces, not a paste. Pulse in short bursts until the broccoli is finely chopped but still has some texture.
4. Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped or pulsed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon or your hands to mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet and should hold together when pressed. If the mixture seems too wet, you can add a tablespoon or two more of breadcrumbs to help absorb excess moisture. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water or milk at a time until it comes together.
6. Shape into Tots: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. Take about a tablespoon of the broccoli mixture and shape it into a small tot or nugget shape using your hands. You can make them cylindrical, oval, or round – whatever shape you prefer. Place the shaped tots onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each tot to allow for even browning.
7. Bake the Tots: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside and heated through. Flip the tots halfway through baking to ensure even browning on all sides. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. They should be firm to the touch and have a nice golden color.
8. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, remove the broccoli tots from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This will allow them to firm up slightly and make them easier to handle. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, ketchup, or a creamy cheese dip.

Nutritional Facts: A Healthier Way to Snack

These Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots are not only delicious but also offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional facts per serving (serving size: about 3-4 tots), based on estimations and can vary depending on specific ingredients used:

• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings (depending on tot size)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Fat: 8-12 grams

Key Nutritional Highlights:

• Good Source of Protein: Thanks to the cheese and egg, these tots provide a decent amount of protein, which is important for satiety and muscle building.
• Rich in Fiber: Broccoli is naturally high in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as folate and potassium.
• Lower in Fat and Calories: Compared to fried potato tots or other processed snacks, these baked broccoli tots are significantly lower in fat and calories, especially if you use reduced-fat cheese and whole wheat breadcrumbs.
• Sneaky Veggie Power: A fantastic way to increase vegetable intake, especially for those who are less enthusiastic about eating plain broccoli.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and amounts of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate in Under an Hour

These Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots are surprisingly quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight snack or a last-minute appetizer.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes chopping broccoli, cooking broccoli, and mixing ingredients)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (baking time in the oven)
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes

From start to finish, you can have a batch of these delicious and healthy broccoli tots ready in under an hour. Much of the prep time involves cooking and chopping the broccoli, which can be streamlined if you use frozen broccoli or pre-chopped fresh broccoli. The baking time is relatively hands-off, allowing you to prepare a dipping sauce or set the table while they are in the oven.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots: Versatile and Delicious

These broccoli tots are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them perfect for various occasions.

As an Appetizer or Snack:

• Dipping Sauces Galore: Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes. Popular choices include:
  • Classic Ranch Dressing: A timeless favorite that complements the cheesy broccoli flavor.
  • Marinara Sauce: Adds a tangy and savory element, especially good with the Parmesan cheese.
  • Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who like a kick, mix sriracha sauce with mayonnaise for a creamy and spicy dip.
  • Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy option that balances the savory tots.
  • Cheese Sauce: For an extra cheesy experience, serve with a warm cheese sauce or nacho cheese dip.
  • Guacamole or Avocado Crema: A healthier and refreshing dip that pairs well with the baked tots.
• Party Platter: Arrange the tots on a platter with various dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties, gatherings, or game days.
• Kid-Friendly Snack: Perfect for after-school snacks or weekend treats. Kids love the fun shape and cheesy flavor, making it a great way to sneak in some vegetables.

As a Side Dish:

• Burger Buddy: Serve alongside burgers, sandwiches, or wraps as a healthier alternative to fries or potato tots.
• Chicken or Fish Companion: Pair them with baked or grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a balanced and nutritious meal.
• Soup and Tot Combo: Enjoy them alongside a hearty soup or chili for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Salad Enhancement: Add a few tots to a salad for extra texture and flavor, especially with a vinaigrette dressing.

Creative Serving Ideas:

• Tot Skewers: Thread tots onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls for a fun and interactive appetizer.
• Tot Bowls: Create “tot bowls” by layering tots with chili, cheese, sour cream, and other toppings for a loaded and indulgent meal.
• Breakfast Tots: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a unique and savory breakfast or brunch.
• Taco Tots: Crumble tots and use them as a topping for tacos or taco salads for extra crunch and flavor.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots

Want to take your broccoli tots to the next level? Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure crispy, flavorful, and successful results every time:

1. Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Whether using fresh or frozen broccoli, it’s crucial to remove as much excess moisture as possible after cooking. Too much water will result in soggy tots that don’t crisp up properly. After cooking and chopping the broccoli, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove excess liquid.
2. Don’t Over-process the Broccoli: If using a food processor to chop the broccoli, be careful not to over-process it into a puree. Pulse in short bursts until it’s finely chopped but still has some texture. Over-processed broccoli can make the tots mushy and less appealing.
3. Adjust Breadcrumbs for Consistency: The amount of breadcrumbs needed may vary depending on the moisture content of your broccoli and cheese. Start with the recipe amount and add more breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time, if the mixture seems too wet and doesn’t hold its shape well. Conversely, if the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water or milk until it comes together.
4. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses can all be used. Smoked cheeses like smoked Gouda or smoked cheddar can add a unique smoky flavor dimension.
5. Spice it Up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with other seasonings like Italian seasoning, paprika, or dried herbs like oregano or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
6. Get Creative with Toppings: Before baking, you can sprinkle the tops of the tots with extra Parmesan cheese, everything bagel seasoning, or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
7. Make Ahead and Freeze: These broccoli tots are freezer-friendly! Prepare the tots as directed up to the shaping step. Place the shaped tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To bake from frozen, simply bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
8. Baking Sheet Spacing: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when baking the tots. Leave a little space between each tot to allow for proper air circulation and even browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in less crispy tots. You may need to bake in batches if you are making a large quantity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots

Have questions about making the perfect Cheesy Baked Broccoli Tots? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you succeed:

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli florets. Just make sure to thaw them completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before chopping or pulsing. Frozen broccoli can sometimes be more watery than fresh, so thorough draining is crucial.

Q2: Can I make these tots gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free if you are strictly avoiding gluten.

Q3: Can I make these tots dairy-free or vegan?
A: Yes, with some substitutions. To make them dairy-free, use dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. To make them vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) or a commercially available egg replacer.

Q4: How do I prevent the tots from being soggy?
A: The key to crispy tots is removing excess moisture from the broccoli. Ensure you squeeze out as much water as possible after cooking the broccoli. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, and bake at a high enough temperature (400°F/200°C) to promote browning and crisping.

Q5: Can I make the tot mixture ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the broccoli tot mixture up to a day ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, shape the tots and bake as directed.

Q6: What are the best dipping sauces for broccoli tots?
A: Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, cheese sauce, and guacamole are all delicious dipping options. Choose your favorites or offer a variety for your guests to choose from.

Q7: How long do baked broccoli tots last?
A: Baked broccoli tots are best served fresh and warm for optimal crispiness. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them up again.

Q8: Can I air fry these broccoli tots instead of baking them?
A: Yes, air frying is a great option for crispy tots! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the shaped tots in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Air frying often results in even crispier tots compared to baking.

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