Description
Cheesy Broccoli Tots are a delicious and healthy snack made with fresh steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and whole wheat breadcrumbs. These golden-brown bites are baked until crispy and perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauces, making them a great appetizer or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets for 3 to 5 minutes until they become tender and bright green. Drain well and finely chop to create a consistent texture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, whole wheat breadcrumbs, optional Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a dough-like consistency.
- Shape Tots: Form the mixture into small tot shapes, about 1.5 inches long. Arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the tots with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake Tots: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip the tots once halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the tots to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious paired with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your preferred dip.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best flavor and texture; frozen can be used but ensure it is well drained to avoid sogginess.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- The Parmesan cheese and spices are optional but add depth and richness to the flavor.
- These tots reheat well in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.
