If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables, Cheesy Broccoli Tots are the answer!
These little bites of goodness are not only packed with nutrient-rich broccoli but also infused with the rich flavor of cheddar cheese.
Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, this recipe is a surefire way to make broccoli exciting and appetizing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups finely shredded cheddar cheese (for best results, shred by hand instead of buying pre-shredded)
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Honey mustard sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
To start, preheat your oven to 400˚F and lightly grease a sheet pan.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Once boiling, add the broccoli florets and let them simmer for about 3 minutes.
This quick cooking will make the broccoli tender while preserving its vibrant green color.
After simmering, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
This step is crucial to prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Once cooled, drain the broccoli and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove as much excess moisture as possible.
Step 2: Chop the Broccoli
Next, add the broccoli to a food processor and pulse a few times until the broccoli is finely chopped.
You don’t want it to be pureed; instead, aim for a texture that resembles small crumbles.
This texture helps the tots hold together better and makes them more enjoyable to eat.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli with the beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped yellow onion, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
The cheese and breadcrumbs will help bind the mixture together, while the spices add a burst of flavor.
Step 4: Form the Tots
Using a tablespoon, portion out the mixture and then shape it into small tot shapes.
This step can be a bit messy, but it’s worth it for the end result.
Place each tot on the lightly oiled baking sheet, ensuring there is a bit of space between them to allow for even cooking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the tots in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
After this initial baking time, carefully flip each tot over and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. The goal is to achieve a golden brown color on both sides.
The result will be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.
Enjoy and Serve
Once baked, let the tots cool slightly before serving.
You can enjoy them plain or with your favorite dipping sauce.
For an extra touch of flavor, try serving them with honey mustard sauce or any other dip of your choice.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Tots
- Shredding Cheese: For the best texture and flavor, shred the cheddar cheese by hand rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the consistency of the tots.
- Broccoli Preparation: Ensuring the broccoli is well-dried before mixing helps the tots hold their shape better and prevents them from becoming too soggy.
- Storage: Leftover tots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven to retain their crispy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy Broccoli Tots are not just a tasty treat but also a clever way to sneak in some vegetables.
They make an excellent side dish for any meal and are perfect for lunchboxes or snack time.
Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults, making them a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to incorporate vegetables into your meals or need additional inspiration for healthy snacks, be sure to check out our full range of recipes.