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If you’re looking for a fun, crispy, and downright addictive way to sneak some greens into your snack time or dinner rotation, this Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine perfectly crispy tots that have the nutty warmth of cheddar and Parmesan mingled with tender, vibrant broccoli, delivering a burst of comforting flavor with every bite. They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and ideal for both kids and adults who love a little crunch paired with wholesome goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the lush green broccoli that adds nutrients and moisture, to the cheeses that bring ooey-gooey cheesiness, and the breadcrumbs that provide the perfect crispy coating. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start cooking:
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, steamed until tender, they form the veggie-packed base of the tots.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds rich, sharp flavor and melty goodness inside each tot.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Regular or panko, these bind everything together and help create that irresistible crunch.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty kick that amps up the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the all-important binder holding all the ingredients together.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle hint of garlic adds a wonderful depth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate every bit.
How to Make Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Broccoli
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light grease—this keeps your tots from sticking and helps them crisp perfectly. Meanwhile, steam your broccoli until it’s just tender, then finely chop or pulse it in a food processor until it looks like tiny rice grains — this texture is key for perfect tots.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli with shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix everything thoroughly so the cheese and breadcrumbs evenly coat the broccoli, creating a cohesive mixture that will hold its shape.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
Grab about a tablespoon of mixture per tot and roll it gently between your palms to form little cylinders or traditional tot shapes. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect — rustic shapes are charming and totally delicious! Arrange each shaped tot evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place your tray in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through to ensure even browning. You’ll know they’re done when they turn golden on the outside with a crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the tender broccoli-cheese filling inside.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Let your Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe cool just slightly out of the oven—too hot to handle! Then serve with your favorite dipping sauce and prepare for everyone to gobble these up faster than you can say “seconds.”
How to Serve Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top can brighten these tots up visually and flavor-wise. A little drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon can also add a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
Pairing these tots with a fresh garden salad or a creamy coleslaw is a fabulous way to add layers of texture and freshness. They also complement hearty soups, grilled chicken, or even a juicy burger, making for a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to elevate your Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe? Serve them stacked with a sprinkle of cheese and chopped green onions as little tot towers, or arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces—from tangy ranch to spicy sriracha mayo—to invite your guests to customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and with this recipe, that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When properly stored, they’ll keep their flavor and make for a quick snack or side with minimal effort.
Freezing
This Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe is freezer-friendly! Flash freeze the shaped tots on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months and are perfect for whenever you’re craving a veggie-packed snack without the initial prep.
Reheating
To bring those crispy tots back to life, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to retain their crispy exterior – the oven is your best friend here!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly steam and drain the broccoli to avoid excess moisture, which can make the tots soggy. Finely chopping or pulsing after steaming ensures the right texture.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed cornflakes, ground oats, or even almond meal for a gluten-free option. Just aim for a dry binder that helps the tots keep their shape and crisp up nicely.
Are these tots kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild cheese flavors and fun tot shape make them a hit with kids, especially when served with familiar dips like ketchup or ranch dressing.
Can I bake these on a grill or air fryer?
Yes, both work great! An air fryer will crisp them up quickly and evenly, typically in about 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). On the grill, use a grill-safe pan and watch carefully to prevent burning.
How do I make the tots crispier?
Using panko breadcrumbs and flipping the tots halfway through baking helps create an extra-crispy crust. Also, avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet so the heat circulates properly around each tot.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe is one of those kitchen magic moments — simple ingredients combined to create a crispy, cheesy, and nutritious treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a fun side dish, these tots deliver veggie-packed satisfaction with every bite. Go ahead and give them a try; I promise they’ll become a favorite in your recipe box as they are in mine!
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Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful Broccoli Tater Tots made with fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized tots are a healthy and delicious snack or side dish, perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender. Once cooked, finely chop the broccoli by hand or pulse it in a food processor until it reaches rice-sized pieces.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Tots: Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small tot shapes with your hands. Place each shaped tot onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake: Bake the tots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through baking, carefully flip the tots to ensure they become golden and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the tots from the oven and serve warm. They pair excellently with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli; just be sure to steam and drain well to remove excess moisture.
- For extra crispness, you can add a little more breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet.
- These tots freeze well; bake them directly from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Feel free to customize seasoning by adding herbs or spices like paprika or onion powder.
