Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and nutritious – A great way to sneak in veggies without sacrificing flavor.
• Crispy and cheesy – The perfect balance of crunchy and creamy.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Kid-friendly – A fun and tasty way to get children to eat more broccoli.
• Versatile – Great as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.

Ingredients

• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Prepare the broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets until tender (about 4-5 minutes), then drain and let cool. If using frozen, thaw and drain any excess water.
3. Chop the broccoli: Once cooled, finely chop the broccoli into small pieces. Alternatively, pulse in a food processor for a finer texture.
4. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Form the tots: Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small tot-sized cylinders or balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip halfway through for even crisping.
7. Serve: Let the tots cool slightly before serving. Serve with a dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or a creamy garlic dip.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese variation: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Herb-infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for extra flavor.
• Vegan option: Use a flax egg and dairy-free cheese for a plant-based version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to regain crispiness. You can also reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best results.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked tots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To cook, bake from frozen for 25-30 minutes at 400°F.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well as long as it’s thawed and any excess moisture is drained.

2. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or even a spicy cheese blend.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the tots and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Are these tots gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds instead.

5. How do I get the tots crispy?

Make sure to bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flip them halfway through cooking for even crisping.

6. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, you can fry them in a little oil in a skillet, but baking is healthier and less messy.

7. How do I freeze the tots?

Freeze the uncooked tots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

8. Can I use a food processor to chop the broccoli?

Yes, using a food processor is a great way to quickly chop the broccoli into smaller pieces.

9. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can add finely grated carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower to the mix for added nutrition.

10. What dipping sauces go well with these tots?

They pair well with ranch dressing, honey mustard, marinara sauce, or a creamy garlic dip.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Tots are a fun, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy vegetables. With crispy outsides and cheesy, flavorful insides, they make the perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer for any meal. Whether you’re looking to sneak more veggies into your diet or just want a tasty treat, these tots are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try today!

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