Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are the perfect way to sneak more vegetables into your day — and enjoy every bite of it! These bite-sized delights are golden and crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, and packed with nutritious broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

This recipe takes the humble broccoli and transforms it into something utterly crave-worthy — proof that healthy food can also be exciting, comforting, and utterly delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that vegetables can be irresistibly tasty! These broccoli tots are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor — and they’re baked, so you can enjoy them without any deep-frying mess or guilt.

Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, meaning you can make a big batch ahead of time and bake them fresh whenever the craving hits.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is an absolute must-try because:

• It’s crispy, flavorful, and wholesome — the perfect combination.
• It’s kid-friendly and ideal for picky eaters who don’t usually love veggies.
• It’s baked, not fried, keeping it light and nutritious.
• It’s easy to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients.
• It makes a great snack, appetizer, or healthy side dish for any meal.

If you’re looking for a healthier comfort food or an exciting way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4 (about 20 tots)
• Calories: ~140 kcal per serving
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Tots:

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional for Extra Crispiness:

• Olive oil spray for baking

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
3. Drain well and pat dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
4. Finely chop the broccoli or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles small rice-like pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheeses, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture holds together.
3. If it feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Shape the Tots

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.
3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and shape it into small oval tots with your hands.
4. Place them evenly on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

1. Lightly spray the tops of the tots with olive oil for extra crispiness.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on all sides.

How to Serve

Serve these crispy broccoli tots warm, fresh out of the oven, with your favorite dipping sauces such as:

• Ketchup
• Garlic aioli
• Ranch dressing
• Honey mustard
• Spicy sriracha mayo

They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled chicken.

Recipe Tips

• Dry the broccoli well: Moisture prevents crispiness, so blot it thoroughly.
• Use panko breadcrumbs: They give the best texture and crunch.
• Add spice: A pinch of chili flakes or cayenne adds a nice kick.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the tots space to crisp up evenly.
• Flip halfway through baking: Ensures all sides are perfectly golden.

Variations

1. Cauliflower Tots: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower for a mild, nutty twist.
2. Vegan Version: Replace egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use vegan cheese.
3. Extra Veggie Version: Add grated zucchini or carrots for more color and nutrients.
4. Cheesy Upgrade: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a gooier center.
5. Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Freezing and Storage

• To Store:
  Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
• To Freeze (Before Baking):
  Arrange shaped tots on a baking tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
  Bake straight from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25–28 minutes.
• To Freeze (After Baking):
  Let cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through and crisp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Food processor (optional, for chopping broccoli)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes! Just thaw completely, drain, and pat dry before using.

Q: Can I fry these instead of baking?
A: Yes, pan-fry them in a bit of oil until golden brown for extra crispiness.

Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Absolutely — use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q: What dipping sauce pairs best?
A: Ranch, chipotle mayo, or a zesty honey mustard are all great options.

Q: Can I make these in advance?
A: Yes — shape the tots ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. Golden, cheesy, and satisfyingly crunchy, they make veggies exciting again — even for those who think they don’t like broccoli!

Perfect for family dinners, healthy snacking, or party appetizers, these tots are easy to make, customizable, and absolutely addictive. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.