Description
These Broccoli Tater Tots are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic potato tots, combining tender broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan for a crispy, cheesy bite. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they’re easy to make and baked to golden perfection, making them a family-friendly favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli Mixture
- 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 the 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 the broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender. Once cooked, finely chop them by hand or pulse in a food processor until the pieces resemble rice in size.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the tots: Using about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time, form small tot shapes with your hands. Place each tot onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake the tots: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through the cooking time to ensure they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve warm: Remove the tots from the oven and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or any preferred condiment.
Notes
- Steaming the broccoli softens it so the tots bind well; ensure broccoli is cooled slightly before mixing to avoid cooking the egg prematurely.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Flipping halfway helps achieve even browning and crispiness on all sides.
- These tots can be frozen before baking; place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before chopping.
