Get ready to transform your snack game with the ultimate comfort food mashup that will make your taste buds dance! 🥦🧀 These Broccoli Cheddar Tater Tots are not just another side dish - they're a crispy, cheesy revolution that sneaks healthy veggies into an irresistibly delicious package. Imagine biting into a golden-brown, perfectly crisp tot that's packed with melted cheddar and nutritious broccoli - it's like a flavor explosion that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Finely chop the broccoli into very small pieces, ensuring no large chunks remain. The smaller the pieces, the better the tots will hold together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and mashed potatoes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the beaten egg to the mixture, which will help bind the ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Spread the breadcrumbs on a separate plate. This will be used for coating the tots and creating a crispy exterior.
- Using your hands, form the potato-broccoli mixture into small cylindrical or oval-shaped tots, approximately 2 inches long and 1 inch wide.
- Roll each tot in the breadcrumbs, ensuring a complete and even coating. Place the coated tots on a clean plate or baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the prepared tots on the baking sheet, leaving a small space between each to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
- Remove from the oven when the tots are golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow them to set.
- Optional: Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch, sriracha mayo, or ketchup for added flavor.
Tips
- Chop the broccoli super fine to ensure the tots hold together perfectly and create a smooth texture.
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are at room temperature for easier mixing and binding.
- Use cold, freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor distribution.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each tot some breathing room to ensure maximum crispiness.
- For extra crunch, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs for regular breadcrumbs.
- Let the tots rest for a few minutes after baking to help them set and become easier to handle.
- These tots can be prepared ahead of time and frozen before baking - just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
- For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or even ground oats as a coating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
