Cheesy Broccoli Tots: Simple Crispy Snack Delight

why make this recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Tots are the perfect snack for anyone craving something delicious and healthy. They are a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for kids and even adults who may be hesitant to eat their greens. The combination of cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs makes these tots irresistible while maintaining a nutritious profile. Plus, they are easy to prepare and bake, making them a simple choice for a quick snack or side dish.

how to make Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Ingredients

• 2 cups steamed and finely chopped broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large beaten egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.125 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Steam the broccoli until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Then, chop it finely.
3. In a large bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan with whole wheat breadcrumbs.
5. Form the broccoli mixture into 24 equal-sized tots. Roll each one in the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
6. Place the tots about an inch apart on the lined baking sheets.
7. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip the tots and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown.

how to serve Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Cheesy Broccoli Tots can be served hot straight from the oven. They pair well with a variety of dips, like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. These tots can be enjoyed as a snack, a side dish for family meals, or a fun appetizer at parties.

how to store Cheesy Broccoli Tots

To store leftover Cheesy Broccoli Tots, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, arrange the tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

tips to make Cheesy Broccoli Tots

• Make sure to chop the broccoli finely to help the tots hold together better.
• Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give a nice kick.
• If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can spray the tots lightly with cooking spray before baking.

variation

You can easily customize these tots by adding other ingredients such as cooked bacon bits or different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before chopping.

Can I make these tots ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tots and store them in the fridge for a day or two before baking.

What if I don’t have whole wheat breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers as a substitute. Just make sure they are plain for the best flavor.

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