Name: Crunchy Broccoli Tots: The Kid-Friendly Snack You'll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Broccoli (Fresh or frozen, chopped); 2 large Eggs (Can replace with ¼ cup chickpea flour mixed with ¼ cup water for egg-free); 1 cup Almond Meal/Flour (Substitute with panko breadcrumbs or oat flour for gluten-free); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Swap for mozzarella for lower sodium); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh is ideal); ½ teaspoon Salt (Omit for a baby-friendly version)

As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant green of fresh broccoli caught my eye, beckoning me to create something special. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of crispy broccoli tots—our family’s new go-to snack! These small bites are not only a treasure trove of nutrition, but they also provide a fun and delicious way to sneak in those greens, even for picky eaters. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, these kid-friendly broccoli tots make for a quick and healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. Imagine serving them fresh out of the oven, golden brown and ready for dipping—who could resist? Curious about how to make these wholesome delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Broccoli Tots a must-try?

Healthier Alternative: Broccoli tots are a fantastic way to enjoy a crunchy snack without the guilt, making them perfect for both kids and adults.

Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from prep to finish, you can whip up these delicious bites with minimal hassle.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Even the pickiest eaters will love these tasty, veggie-packed treats, helping parents sneak in some greens!

Versatile Options: Whether you want to swap the cheese or adjust for dietary restrictions, this recipe allows for easy substitutions to fit your family’s needs.

Perfect for Dipping: Serve these tots with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor. Just like our Baked Sweet Tots, they’re equally delightful!

Broccoli Tots Ingredients

• Get ready to create these delicious bites!

For the Tots

Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, this is the star that packs nutrition into each tot.
Eggs – Binds the mixture together; replace with ¼ cup of chickpea flour mixed with ¼ cup of water for an egg-free twist.
Almond Meal/Flour – Adds a slight nuttiness; can substitute with panko breadcrumbs or oat flour for gluten-free options.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers rich flavor; swap for mozzarella if you’re seeking a lower sodium choice.
Garlic Cloves – Enhances taste; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works well in a pinch.
Salt – Balances flavors; you can omit this for a baby-friendly version to keep sodium low.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Broccoli Tots

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the broccoli tots from sticking. This simple preparation step is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish, ensuring your tots bake evenly and are easy to serve later.

Step 2: Prep the Broccoli
Take fresh broccoli florets and trim the tough outer skin from the stem. Chop the stem and florets into small pieces, aiming for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. You want the broccoli pieces to be manageable for steaming, so take a moment to get them nicely chopped, making sure they are ready for the next step.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
In a steamer basket, arrange the chopped broccoli stems and steam them for about 1 minute. Then, add the florets and continue steaming for an additional 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain the broccoli thoroughly to remove excess moisture, as this helps in creating a crispy texture for your delicious broccoli tots.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, eggs, almond meal, and minced garlic. Mix them thoroughly, making sure to mash any larger pieces of broccoli, so everything blends nicely. You want a cohesive mixture that holds together, which is key for shaping your crispy broccoli tots.

Step 5: Shape the Tots
Using your hands, scoop out heaping tablespoons of the broccoli mixture and shape them into tot-like forms. Place the formed tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. This recipe yields about 23-25 tots, so keep a steady rhythm as you shape them to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Tots
Lightly spray the tops of the tots with cooking oil if desired for extra crispiness, then place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them in the final minutes to avoid over-browning while achieving that perfect appetizing look.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the broccoli tots from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They pair wonderfully with your favorite dips, such as marinara sauce or ranch dressing, making for a delightful snack that everyone in the family will love.

Storage Tips for Broccoli Tots

Room Temperature: Serve freshly baked broccoli tots immediately for the best flavor and crunch; they are best enjoyed warm.

Fridge: Store leftover broccoli tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked broccoli tots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Increase baking time when cooking from frozen, aiming for 25-30 minutes until golden.

Reheating: For maximum crispiness, reheat baked tots in an air fryer or oven rather than the microwave, until heated through and crispy again.

Expert Tips for Broccoli Tots

Don’t Over-process: Keeping some texture in the broccoli is key. Avoid turning it into a puree for the best crunchy tots.
Check for Allergies: If making for babies or individuals with dietary restrictions, be sure to monitor for allergies related to eggs, nuts, and dairy.
Freezing Made Easy: You can freeze the raw tots on a baking sheet; once firm, transfer to a freezer bag. Increase baking time if cooking from frozen.
Chose Your Cheese Wisely: For a sharper taste, experiment with cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Parmesan can elevate the flavor of your broccoli tots.
Serve Fresh: These tots are best enjoyed right after baking for maximum crunch. Pair with extra dips, like a homemade yogurt sauce, to enhance the experience.

Broccoli Tots Variations & Substitutions

Explore exciting twists for your broccoli tots – because every bite should be a delightful surprise!

Gluten-Free: Replace almond meal with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or oat flour, providing a similar texture without gluten.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for those avoiding dairy. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the calories.
Egg-Free: Substitute eggs with ¼ cup of chickpea flour mixed with ¼ cup of water for a vegan-friendly option. This ensures your tots still hold that scrumptious shape!
Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the mix. These additions not only increase the nutrients but also enhance the flavor profile, creating an aromatic experience.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños. This can really elevate the flavor, making these tots exciting for adventurous eaters.
Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil can add a lovely aroma and freshness. Just a teaspoon would infuse your tots with a delightful garden flavor reminiscent of sunny afternoons.
Alternative Cheese Blend: Swap sharp cheddar for a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a subtle, delicious taste. This can create a beautifully gooey texture inside your tots.
Savory Add-Ins: Toss in some olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even artichokes for a gourmet twist. Each bite will surprise you with a burst of unexpected flavor, making them feel more indulgent.

Experimenting like this can lead to new favorite versions of your beloved broccoli tots! And if you’re interested in more creative spins, take a peek at our delicious Baked Sweet Tots for more inspiration that’s sure to wow your family!

Make Ahead Options

These crispy broccoli tots are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the broccoli mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Just mix together the steamed broccoli, cheese, eggs, almond meal, and garlic, and shape them into tots when you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, feel free to freeze the shaped tots for up to 3 months; simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen for about 25-30 minutes, and you’ll have delicious, healthy snacks ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Crispy Broccoli Tots

Serving crispy broccoli tots transforms them from a delightful snack into a full meal experience—perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Creamy Avocado Dip: This smooth dip balances the crunchiness of the tots with its rich texture, offering a fresh flavor that enhances the overall snacking experience.
Classic Marinara Sauce: The tangy, robust flavor of marinara pairs beautifully with the mildness of the tots, making every bite a delightful journey of taste and texture.
Savory Garlic Yogurt Sauce: This creamy sauce infused with fresh herbs adds a zesty contrast, elevating the flavor profile while keeping things light and refreshing.
Crisp Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette introduces a fresh crunch, complementing the warm, crispy tots perfectly.
Zesty Lemon Quinoa: Quinoa tossed with fresh lemon and parsley provides a protein-packed side that makes your meal more filling without overpowering the tots’ flavor.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet bites create a delicious contrast with the savory tots, adding another layer of wholesome nutritious goodness to your meal.
Refreshing Cucumber Relish: This crisp, cool topping provides an unexpected twist alongside the warm tots, enhancing their taste with a delightful crunch.
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing drink to wash everything down, herbal iced tea with a hint of mint or lemon offers a light beverage that complements the flavors wonderfully.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: For dessert, consider chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas to round off your meal with a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory flavors enjoyed earlier.

Broccoli Tots Recipe FAQs

What type of broccoli is best for making broccoli tots?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is ideal for this recipe as it provides the best flavor and nutrition. However, you can also use frozen broccoli; just ensure it is completely thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your tots.

How should I store leftover broccoli tots?
Great question! Store leftover broccoli tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Can I freeze broccoli tots?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked broccoli tots before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, increase the baking time to about 25-30 minutes to ensure they are thoroughly heated and golden brown.

What if my broccoli mixture is too wet to form tots?
No worries! If the mixture seems too wet, you can add a bit more almond meal or a handful of breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture. Start with a tablespoon at a time, mixing well until you achieve a consistency that holds together when shaped.

Are broccoli tots suitable for babies?
Very! Broccoli tots can be a great option for babies, as long as you monitor for allergies. Just reduce the salt or omit it entirely to make them more baby-friendly. When serving them to little ones, make sure they are cooked well and cut into manageable pieces to prevent choking hazards.

Can I substitute the cheese in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, mozzarella works wonderfully. You can also try using a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just remember to ensure any substitute adheres to dietary restrictions you may have!