Get ready to transform boring vegetables into an irresistible crowd-pleasing snack that will have everyone begging for seconds! These Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are the ultimate game-day, party, or kid-friendly appetizer that sneakily packs in nutritious broccoli while delivering maximum cheesy, crispy deliciousness. Imagine biting into a golden, crunchy tot that's bursting with melted cheddar and perfectly seasoned broccoli - it's like a healthier, more exciting version of traditional tater tots that will make you forget you're eating vegetables!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 tots
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Drain thoroughly and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Finely chop the steamed broccoli using a food processor or sharp knife, ensuring pieces are small but not pureed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, mixing thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into compact tot-shaped cylinders, approximately 1-inch long.
- Arrange tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow tots to set.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli.
Tips
- Ensure broccoli is thoroughly drained and cooled after steaming to prevent excess moisture, which can make your tots soggy.
- Chop broccoli finely but not into a puree - you want small pieces that will help the tots hold together.
- Use a small ice cream scoop or wet hands when forming tots to create uniform shapes that cook evenly.
- For extra crispiness, spray the tots lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - leave space between tots for proper air circulation and crisping.
- Let tots rest for a few minutes after baking to help them firm up and maintain their shape.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations or add herbs like dried parsley or chives for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg
