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Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Tots

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These crispy cheesy broccoli tots are a quick and easy snack that combines melted cheese and roasted broccoli for a delicious, veggie-packed bite. Perfect for frying or baking, they make a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (about 300g) broccoli florets, finely chopped or pulsed (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 3/4 cup (75g) panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying or brushing if baking
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or swap cheddar for mozzarella

Instructions

  1. Prep the broccoli: Steam or blanch fresh broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and let cool. For frozen broccoli, thaw completely and drain well. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to avoid soggy tots.
  2. Chop finely: Pulse the broccoli in a food processor for a few seconds until finely chopped but not mushy. Alternatively, finely chop with a knife. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute flavors evenly.
  4. Bind the mixture: Add the beaten egg and panko breadcrumbs. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed. If too wet, add more panko breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time.
  5. Shape the tots: Scoop about 2 tablespoons (30g) of the mixture and roll into small cylinders or balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray without overcrowding.
  6. Choose cooking method:
  7. To fry: Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat until shimmering (around 350°F / 175°C). Fry tots in batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  8. To bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place tots on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush or spray lightly with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
  9. Serve warm: Enjoy immediately for best texture with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from broccoli to avoid soggy tots. Flip tots halfway when baking for even crispness. Keep oil at medium heat when frying to prevent burning or greasy tots. If mixture is crumbly, add an extra egg or splash of milk. Leftovers can be reheated in oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Frozen tots can be cooked from frozen with extra cooking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli tots, cheesy broccoli bites, crispy snack, baked broccoli tots, fried broccoli tots, easy snack, kid-friendly, vegetarian

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/crispy-cheesy-broccoli-tots-recipe-easy-fried-or-baked-snack/