Baked Broccoli Tots Recipe

If you’re searching for a bite-sized, veggie-packed snack that both kids and adults will adore, let me introduce you to Baked Broccoli Tots! These golden, crispy morsels are the ultimate answer to “how do I get more vegetables into my daily routine without anyone complaining?” With their irresistible crunch and savory cheesy flavor, they’re as fun to eat as they are easy to make. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even sneak them into lunchboxes, Baked Broccoli Tots are the feel-good finger food you’ll make on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create these unforgettable tots. Each one plays a crucial role, bringing a burst of flavor or an essential texture to elevate your Baked Broccoli Tots from ordinary to crave-worthy.

• Broccoli florets: The star of the show, bringing bright color, subtle sweetness, and a nutritious punch.
• Breadcrumbs: Give your tots structure and that essential crispy bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness and adds a bold, comforting flavor.
• Egg: Works as the binding agent, helping everything hold together for the perfect tot shape.
• Garlic powder: Adds a little savory background note that makes these tots seriously addictive.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for highlighting all the flavors and bringing the broccoli to life.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Tots

Step 1: Prep Your Broccoli

Start by lightly steaming your broccoli florets until they’re just tender and vibrant green—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, chop them finely. You want bite-sized pieces without pureeing, which keeps that satisfying tot texture in every bite.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well with a spatula or your hands until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should hold together when pressed—if it seems a bit too dry, add a small splash of milk; if too wet, sprinkle in a few more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Shape the Tots

Scoop out about a tablespoon of mixture and use your hands to form it into an adorable little tot shape. Don’t worry about making them uniform—rustic is charming! Line them up on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each so the heat can crisp them up.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Be sure to flip the Baked Broccoli Tots halfway through—this ensures they brown beautifully on all sides and all that melty cheese crisps up nicely. When they’re golden, fragrant, and just slightly firm to the touch, it’s time to take them out and let them cool for a couple of minutes (if you can wait that long!).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your gorgeous homemade Baked Broccoli Tots to a platter and serve them warm. Add your favorite dipping sauces—think ketchup, ranch, or even spicy mustard—and watch them vanish faster than you can say “hidden veggies!”

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Tots

Garnishes

To give your Baked Broccoli Tots a flavor boost and eye-catching finish, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley or chives. A dusting of grated parmesan or a few chili flakes can also turn up the wow-factor, making your plate irresistible from the very first glance.

Side Dishes

These crispy tots are super versatile—pair them with a fresh, tangy salad to keep things light, or serve alongside grilled chicken or a juicy turkey burger for a heartier meal. They also shine as a playful side for tomato soup or creamy ranch dip, making them a kid-friendly duo that adults secretly crave too.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, thread Baked Broccoli Tots onto skewers for a fun party appetizer. Or pack them in lunchboxes with a container of ranch or hummus for easy (and veggie-packed) midday snacking. You can even stack them on a platter “tot tower” style for a fantastic game day treat that’ll have everyone coming back for more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Baked Broccoli Tots left over, simply let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to three days—perfect for grabbing a quick snack or pairing with tomorrow’s dinner.

Freezing

Baked Broccoli Tots freeze beautifully! Once baked and cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months—just pull out what you need, when you need it.

Reheating

To bring back that irresistible crispiness, reheat your tots on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or until piping hot. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can soften the outsides, but if you’re in a hurry, a quick zap will still hit the spot.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for Baked Broccoli Tots?

Absolutely! Thaw the broccoli completely, then squeeze out any excess water with a clean towel before chopping. This helps maintain that lovely crispy texture in your tots.

What are some gluten-free alternatives for the breadcrumbs?

You can swap the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice crackers. Both options yield similar results without compromising the classic crunch.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Of course! Try using your favorite plant-based cheese alternative, and replace the egg with a flaxegg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). The tots will still hold together and taste delicious.

How do I get my tots extra crispy?

If you crave more crunch, place the baked tots under the broiler for the last minute or two of baking, turning often to avoid burning. You can also spray or brush them with a tiny bit of oil before baking for a golden finish.

Are Baked Broccoli Tots good for meal prepping?

They’re wonderful for meal prep! Store them in single layers in airtight containers, refrigerate or freeze, then reheat as needed. Portion them into small bags for on-the-go snacks or easy lunchbox additions all week long.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Baked Broccoli Tots, you’ll totally understand why they’ve become a staple in so many kitchens. With loads of flavor, a satisfying crunch, and a sneaky dose of veggies, these little bites are impossible to resist. Whip up a batch soon and watch everyone fall in love—your veggie game will never be the same!