If you are craving a fun, crispy snack or a delightful appetizer that sneaks in some greens, the Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe is your go-to solution. These bite-sized gems combine tender, flavorful broccoli with cheesy, crispy goodness, making them an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike. They’re not just tasty but also a clever way to enjoy vegetables without feeling like you’re missing out on all the fun. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight snack or adding something special to your party spread, this Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe is a breeze because it relies on simple, straightforward ingredients—all of which play a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. Each component brings something special to the table, ensuring every bite is a delight.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh or frozen, steamed and finely chopped for a tender, veggie-packed base.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds melty, gooey richness that binds the tots and delivers cheesy goodness.
- Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): Either regular or panko works to give the tots a satisfying crispy exterior.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Brings a sharp, savory note that elevates the overall flavor.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder, holding everything together for easy shaping and baking.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a hint of warmth and depth without overpowering the fresh broccoli taste.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that of course brighten all the flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Broccoli
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or giving it a light grease to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, steam the broccoli until it is tender all the way through, which makes it easy to chop finely or pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-sized consistency. This step is key for perfect texture—no chunkiness, just smooth, pillowy broccoli bits.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until you have a cohesive mixture where every ingredient is evenly distributed. This is where all the magic happens—each addition brightens or binds the tots, promising a flavor-packed bite.
Step 3: Shape Your Tots
Scoop roughly one tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small tot-sized cylinders using your hands. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold its shape without falling apart. Place each tot on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Remember to flip the tots halfway through baking to get both sides evenly golden and irresistibly crisp. The aromas filling your kitchen at this stage will practically have your family queued at the oven, ready to dig in.
Step 5: Serve Warm with Your Favorite Sauces
Once baked, serve your Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe warm. They pair beautifully with classic dips like ketchup and ranch or anything spicy like sriracha mayo for an exciting twist. Their crispy exterior combined with a tender, cheesy interior is utterly delightful.
How to Serve Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a fresh burst of color and flavor, making the tots feel even more special. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top while still warm amps up the savory appeal.
Side Dishes
Broccoli tater tots shine as a side for classic comfort foods: think crispy chicken tenders, juicy burgers, or even alongside a fresh leafy salad to balance out the richness. They also make a fun addition to brunch alongside eggs and bacon.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these tots in mini taco shells topped with salsa and sour cream for a playful appetizer or pair them with a tangy yogurt dip infused with dill and lemon for a Mediterranean vibe. Presentation is a wonderful way to amplify the fun, making these tots a conversation starter at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your leftover broccoli tater tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to three days and maintain most of their crispness when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze the tots either before or after baking. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Frozen tots keep well for up to two months, perfect for quick snacks anytime.
Reheating
To revive that crispy exterior, reheat broccoli tater tots in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain texture, as it tends to soften them.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and steam it well, then squeeze out any excess moisture before chopping or pulsing. This prevents soggy tots and helps keep the perfect crispy texture.
Can I make these tots vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives and use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer instead of a chicken egg for binding.
Are these Broccoli Tater Tots healthy?
Compared to traditional tater tots, these include nutrient-rich broccoli and less processed ingredients, making them a smarter, veggie-packed option without compromising on taste.
Can I bake these tots without flipping them?
Flipping helps achieve even browning on all sides, but if you’re short on time, baking them on one side will still be tasty—just keep an eye to avoid burning.
What dipping sauces go best with Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe?
Ketchup and ranch are classics, but honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even spicy sriracha mayo bring exciting flavor combinations that complement the cheesy-tender tots beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Trying out the Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe is like discovering a new way to love veggies with every crispy, cheesy bite. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you serve them as snacks, sides, or appetizers, these tots bring warmth and joy to the table—definitely a dish worth making again and again.
Print
Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 to 24 tots
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Broccoli Tater Tots are a delicious and healthier take on the classic potato tots. Made with steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, they are baked to golden perfection for a crispy outside and tender inside. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these tots combine nutritious vegetables with cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Broccoli Tater Tots
- 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 the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they become tender. Once cooked, finely chop the broccoli by hand or pulse it in a food processor until the pieces are about the size of rice grains.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, the egg, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together.
- Shape the tots: Using about one tablespoon of the mixture per tot, shape the mixture into small, cylindrical tots by hand. Place each tot evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the tots: Bake the shaped tots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through baking, flip the tots to ensure even browning. Bake until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the tots from the oven and serve warm. These tots pair well with ketchup, ranch dressing, or any dipping sauce of your choice.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli; just be sure to steam it well to remove excess moisture.
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help it bind.
- These tots reheat well in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crisp texture.
- Try adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a flavor twist.
