Description
These crispy broccoli cheddar tots are a delicious and healthy snack or side, combining steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of flavorful seasonings. Baked to golden perfection, these tots offer a comforting bite that’s perfect for dipping in sauces like ketchup or ranch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, steamed and finely chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender and easy to mash. Once steamed, finely chop the broccoli by hand or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice-sized pieces.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape Tots: Using your hands, scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small tot shapes. Arrange the tots evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tots for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time to ensure even crispiness and a golden-brown exterior.
- Serve: Once baked to a crispy golden finish, remove from the oven and serve the broccoli cheddar tots warm. They pair wonderfully with dips such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite sauce.
Notes
- Steaming broccoli helps retain nutrients while softening it enough to form the tots.
- For extra crispness, make sure to flip the tots halfway through baking.
- These tots can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- If you want a dairy-free version, substitute cheeses and egg with vegan alternatives and binders like flaxseed meal.
- Breadcrumb type affects texture; panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier result.
