Cheesy Broccoli Tots Recipe

Of all the culinary challenges I’ve faced in my kitchen, the quest to make vegetables exciting for the whole family has been the most persistent. We’ve tried roasting, steaming, and even hiding them in sauces, with mixed results. But then, these Cheesy Broccoli Tots entered our lives, and the game completely changed. I was skeptical at first, wondering if they could truly replicate the satisfying crunch and comfort of a traditional tater tot. The first time I pulled a tray of these golden-brown nuggets from the oven, the aroma of toasted cheese and savory garlic filled the air, and I saw a flicker of genuine interest in my kids’ eyes. They tentatively picked one up, dunked it in some ketchup, and took a bite. The silence was followed by an enthusiastic “Whoa, these are good!” and just like that, the entire batch disappeared. They didn’t just tolerate the broccoli; they celebrated it. These tots have a wonderfully crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, cheesy, and vibrantly green center. They are the perfect Trojan horse for vegetables—a delicious, crave-worthy snack that just happens to be packed with green goodness. This recipe has become a staple in our home, a go-to for a healthy side dish, an after-school snack, or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.

Ingredients

Here is the simple list of wholesome ingredients you’ll need to create these irresistible Cheesy Broccoli Tots. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Fresh Broccoli Florets – 5 cups (about 1 large head): The star of the show. Using fresh broccoli provides the best flavor, a vibrant green color, and a nutrient-packed base for our tots.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded: This is what makes the tots “cheesy.” A sharp cheddar imparts a robust, tangy flavor that stands up beautifully to the broccoli. Shredding your own from a block is recommended for better melting.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – ¾ cup: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are the secret to an extra-crispy exterior. They are lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, ensuring your tots don’t become dense.
• Large Egg – 1, lightly beaten: The primary binder that holds everything together. The egg provides structure, preventing your tots from falling apart during baking.
• Yellow Onion – ¼ cup, finely minced: Adds a layer of savory, aromatic depth to the flavor profile. Mincing it very finely ensures it incorporates seamlessly into the mixture.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon: A convenient way to add that classic, savory garlic flavor that pairs so well with cheese and broccoli.
• Salt – ¾ teaspoon (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the recipe.
• Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon (or to taste): Provides a gentle kick of spice and warmth.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to ensure your Cheesy Broccoli Tots come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender and cheesy on the inside every single time. We’ve included instructions for both the traditional oven method and the popular air fryer method.

Preparation:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for just 1-2 minutes. The goal is to tenderize them slightly and brighten their color, not to cook them through. Immediately drain the broccoli and transfer it to a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This is called “shocking” and it’s key to keeping the broccoli vibrant green.
3. Chop the Broccoli: Once cooled, drain the broccoli thoroughly. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Finely chop the broccoli until it resembles the texture of coarse breadcrumbs. A food processor can make this step much faster; just be careful not to over-process it into a paste. Pulse it a few times until you get the right consistency.
4. The Most Important Step – Squeeze!: Transfer the chopped broccoli to the center of a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of heavy-duty paper towels. Gather the ends and twist, squeezing out as much excess water as you possibly can. You will be surprised at how much liquid comes out. This step is absolutely critical. Removing the water is the secret to preventing soggy tots and helping them get crispy.
5. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly squeezed broccoli, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. Mix Thoroughly: Using a spatula or your hands, mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly combined and the mixture holds together when you press it.

Forming and Cooking:

Now, choose your preferred cooking method.

Oven Method (Classic and Reliable)

1. Shape the Tots: Scoop about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture into your hands. Gently press and roll it into a classic tater tot or small cylinder shape. Place the formed tot onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, ensuring the tots are in a single layer and not touching each other.
2. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then carefully flip each tot over.
3. Final Bake: Continue baking for another 10-12 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and heated through.
4. Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. They will firm up slightly as they cool.

Air Fryer Method (Extra Crispy and Fast)

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the Tots: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place the formed broccoli tots in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure air can circulate around each tot.
3. Air Fry: Cook the tots for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
4. Check for Crispiness: They are done when they are deeply golden brown and feel crisp to the touch. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes if you prefer them extra crispy.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve hot from the air fryer with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition Facts

While these tots are a treat, they are packed with more nutrients than their potato-based counterparts. The following nutritional information is an approximation.

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 4-5 servings (about 6-8 tots per serving).
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 220-260 calories.
• Rich in Vitamin C: A single serving provides a significant portion of your daily Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function and skin health, thanks to the star ingredient: broccoli.
• Good Source of Fiber: Broccoli is a fibrous vegetable, meaning these tots can help support healthy digestion and keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
• Contains Protein: Thanks to the cheese and egg, each serving offers a decent amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Rich in Calcium: Both broccoli and cheddar cheese are excellent sources of calcium, a mineral vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Lower in Carbohydrates: Compared to traditional potato tater tots, these broccoli-based tots are significantly lower in carbohydrates, making them a more suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Preparation Time

This recipe is relatively quick to come together, making it perfect for a weeknight side dish or a quick snack.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes blanching, chopping, and mixing)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (oven) or 8-10 minutes per batch (air fryer)
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish.

How to Serve

These Cheesy Broccoli Tots are incredibly versatile. They can be dressed up for a party or served simply for a family dinner. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

• With a Dipping Sauce Bar: The ultimate way to serve them! Set up a “sauce bar” and let everyone choose their favorite.
  • Classic Ranch Dressing: The cool, creamy tang is a perfect match.
  • Simple Ketchup: A kid-friendly classic that never fails.
  • Marinara Sauce: For a pizza-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with a swirl of sriracha for a creamy, spicy kick.
  • Honey Mustard: The perfect blend of sweet and tangy.
  • Garlic Aioli: A sophisticated, creamy garlic dip that elevates the tots.
• As the Perfect Side Dish: Replace fries or traditional tots with these healthier alternatives.
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon for a balanced meal.
  • Pair them with a juicy beef burger or a steak dinner.
  • Enjoy them next to scrambled eggs for a fun and nutritious breakfast.
• As a Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer:
  • Arrange them on a platter for parties or game day gatherings.
  • Skewer them with a cherry tomato and a small cube of cheese for an easy-to-eat party snack.
• As a Topping:
  • Use them as a crunchy and cheesy topping for a green salad.
  • Crush them over a bowl of soup or chili in place of crackers.
  • Create a “Broccoli Tot Casserole” by layering them over a creamy chicken or beef mixture and baking until bubbly.

Additional Tips

Unlock the full potential of your Cheesy Broccoli Tots with these eight expert tips designed to help you customize the recipe and troubleshoot any potential issues.

1. The Squeeze is Key: It bears repeating: do not skip or rush the step of squeezing the water out of the broccoli. This is the single most important factor in achieving a crispy, well-formed tot that doesn’t fall apart. Use a sturdy cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel for the best results.
2. Uniformity is Your Friend: Try to make all your tots roughly the same size and shape. This ensures that they cook evenly, so you won’t have some that are perfectly golden while others are either undercooked or burnt. A small cookie scoop can help you portion the mixture consistently.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether you’re using an oven or an air fryer, give your tots space to breathe. Placing them too close together will cause them to steam instead of roast, resulting in a softer, soggier texture. Always cook in a single layer, and work in batches if necessary.
4. Flash Freezing for Future Feasting: These tots are perfect for making ahead. Form the tots and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. “Flash freeze” them by placing the sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the tots are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can then bake them directly from frozen—just add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
5. Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, don’t be afraid to mix it up. A combination of Parmesan and mozzarella would be delicious—Parmesan for nutty flavor and mozzarella for a wonderful cheese-pull. Pepper Jack would add a nice spicy kick.
6. Spice It Up Your Way: This recipe is a great canvas for other flavors. Consider adding a half teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or some Italian seasoning for a more herbaceous note.
7. For a Lower-Carb/Keto-Friendly Version: To make these even more low-carb friendly, you can substitute the panko breadcrumbs. Swap them for an equal amount of almond flour or crushed, keto-friendly crisps for a similar binding and crisping effect.
8. Get That Perfect Golden-Brown Finish: For an extra-crispy, beautifully browned exterior, lightly spray the tots with olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray just before they go into the oven or air fryer. This helps the outside crisp up perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making homemade Cheesy Broccoli Tots.

1. Why are my broccoli tots falling apart or mushy?
This is almost always due to one of two things: excess moisture or not enough binder. First, ensure you have squeezed every last drop of water from the chopped broccoli. If the mixture still feels too wet, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of panko breadcrumbs. Second, make sure your egg is well-incorporated to act as the glue holding everything together.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli. Allow it to thaw completely first. Then, whether you steam it or microwave it, cook it until it’s just tender. The most important part is to let it cool and then squeeze it extremely well, as frozen broccoli holds even more water than fresh.

3. How do I store and reheat leftover broccoli tots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. While you can microwave them, they will lose their crispiness. For best results, reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes, until they are hot and crispy again.

4. Are Cheesy Broccoli Tots actually healthy?
“Healthy” is relative, but they are certainly a healthier choice than deep-fried potato tater tots. They are packed with vitamins and fiber from the broccoli and are baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried. While they contain cheese and breadcrumbs, they are a fantastic and delicious way to increase your vegetable intake.

5. Can I make this Cheesy Broccoli Tots recipe vegan?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be vegan. Use your favorite brand of shredded vegan cheddar-style cheese. To replace the egg, you can use a “flax egg.” Simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken, and then use it in place of the chicken egg.

6. What is the best way to chop the broccoli? A knife or a food processor?
Both methods work well, but they offer slightly different results. A food processor is much faster and creates a very fine, uniform texture, which can be great for picky eaters. Just be careful to pulse, not blend, to avoid making a paste. Chopping by hand with a sharp knife gives you more control over the texture and can result in slightly larger pieces of broccoli within the tot, which some people prefer.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the tots?
Certainly! This is a great recipe for hiding other vegetables. Finely chopped cauliflower is an excellent addition. You could also add shredded carrots or zucchini. If you use zucchini, it is imperative that you salt it and squeeze out all of its excess moisture, just like the broccoli, as it has a very high water content.

8. I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs. Can I use regular breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use regular dried breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand. The tots will still be delicious! However, Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended as their light, airy structure is what creates that signature super-crispy coating. If using regular breadcrumbs, your tots may have a slightly denser texture.

Print