Broccoli Cheddar Tots: A Crispy, Cheesy Way to Love Your Greens

Broccoli cheddar tots turn humble broccoli into a crunchy, cheesy bite that appeals to kids and adults alike. They’re perfect as a snack, a side dish, or party finger food. This article gives you a straightforward, make-at-home recipe plus tips for texture, flavor variations, and storage so you can get perfect tots every time.

Why these tots work

• Broccoli provides nutrition and a fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar.
• A starchy binder (potato, rice, or breadcrumbs) ensures the tots hold together and develop a crisp exterior.
• Baking or air-frying gives a golden crust without deep-frying, making this a lighter option.

Ingredients (makes about 24 tots)

• 12 oz (about 340 g) broccoli florets, steamed until tender and finely chopped or pulsed
• 1 cup sharp cheddar, grated
• 1/2 cup plain mashed potato (leftover or instant prepared)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup panko or fine breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing) or cooking spray

Optional additions: a pinch of red pepper flakes, 1–2 tbsp grated Parmesan, or 1–2 tbsp finely chopped green onion.

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. If you haven’t already, steam the broccoli until very tender and let any excess moisture drain. Chop or pulse in a food processor until finely textured but not mushy.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, grated cheddar, mashed potato, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed. If too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of milk or an extra egg white.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into small cylinders or balls. Roll each tot in extra breadcrumbs for a crunchier exterior.
5. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil.
6. Bake 14–18 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crisp. For softer interiors, bake closer to 14 minutes; for crisper tots, bake a bit longer.
7. Alternatively, air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, for extra crispiness.

Serving suggestions

• Serve with ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or a tangy yogurt-dill dip.
• Pair with grilled chicken or a simple salad for a light meal.
• Make them part of a brunch spread alongside eggs and roasted tomatoes.

Variations and swaps

• Vegan: replace egg with a flax or aquafaba binder and use vegan cheddar and breadcrumbs.
• Gluten-free: use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed GF crackers.
• Cheesy mix: swap half the cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add-ins: cooked bacon bits, diced sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped herbs (thyme, parsley) for extra interest.

Make-ahead and storage

• Prep: Form tots and arrange them on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a labeled freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) adding a few extra minutes.
• Refrigerate: Store cooked tots in an airtight container for 3–4 days and reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
• Reheat: 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or air-fry for 3–5 minutes.

Troubleshooting

• Tots fall apart: mixture was too wet—add more breadcrumbs or mashed potato, or chill the mixture 20–30 minutes before shaping.
• Soggy exterior: make sure broccoli is well-drained; roll in extra breadcrumbs and bake at a higher temperature for a shorter time.
• Not cheesy enough: increase the cheddar by 1/4 cup or add a small amount of cream cheese to the mixture for richness.

Conclusion

For a family-friendly broccoli recipe that turns vegetables into addictive little bites, these broccoli cheddar tots are a winner — and you can find more detailed variations and kid-focused tips like the ones used here in a helpful recipe for Broccoli Tots from Feeding Tiny Bellies: Feeding Tiny Bellies’ Broccoli Tots guide. If you want another tested take with step-by-step photos and an air-fryer option, check out this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Tots recipe by Tasty: Tasty’s Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Tots.