When it comes to snacking, broccoli frequently enough gets a bad rap-as the veggie that’s healthy but hardly exciting. Enter crispy broccoli tots: bite-sized,golden nuggets that transform humble florets into irresistible,crunchy treats. These delightful snacks offer a playful twist on customary veggie options, making it easier then ever to sneak some greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor or fun. Whether you’re looking for a family-pleasant appetizer,a party hit,or a guilt-free comfort snack,crispy broccoli tots deliver a satisfying crunch and a burst of wholesome goodness that might just change the way you think about your favorite green vegetable.
Crispy broccoli Tots transform the humble vegetable into a crunchy, flavorful delight that satisfies both the palate and the desire for a nutritious snack. Born from a playful twist on classic potato tots, these bites combine the freshness of broccoli with a perfectly crisp coating, delivering a snack experience that’s as wholesome as it is indeed addictive. Whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly appetizer or an elegant party finger food, these tots bring irresistible texture and vibrant taste to the table.
Prep and cook Time
- Readiness: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield
Makes approximately 24 broccoli tots – perfect for 4 servings as a snack or side dish.
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – great for home cooks wanting a fun, hands-on recipe with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen,thoroughly drained)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs,lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for crispiness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic,minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Vegetable oil spray (for air frying or baking)
Instructions
- Steam the broccoli until tender but still bright green,about 5 minutes. Drain very well and pat dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture – this ensures crispy tots.
- Transfer the broccoli to a food processor and pulse a few times until finely chopped but not pureed. Alternatively, chop finely by hand.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to meld the flavors.
- Add the beaten eggs and flour to the broccoli mixture. Stir until the mixture starts to come together, holding shape when pressed.
- Shape the mixture into small cylinders or oval “tots,” about 1½ inches long and 1 inch wide. You should get roughly 24 tots.
- Coat each tot evenly in panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use the air fryer basket sprayed with oil.
- Arrange tots in a single layer, then spray lightly with vegetable oil spray to promote browning and crispness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry for 15-18 minutes until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn-the exterior should be crunchy and the interior tender.
- Remove from oven or air fryer and cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
- make sure the broccoli is well-drained and dried to avoid soggy tots. Using fresh broccoli yields the best texture; if using frozen, thaw and squeeze out all water.
- Don’t over-process broccoli in the food processor – a bit of texture helps maintain that satisfying crunch.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free alternatives.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a bright, herby flavor lift.
- Make ahead tip: Prepare the tots and freeze on a parchment-lined tray. Once solid,transfer to a freezer bag and cook straight from frozen,adding 5 extra minutes to cooking time.
Creative Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Veggie Snack Experience
Serve these crispy bites with a variety of vibrant dips to complement the broccoli’s natural sweetness and smoky notes. Try a tangy garlic aioli, a zesty lemon-tahini sauce, or a classic marinara for an Italian twist. For a fun party platter, pair with colorful veggie sticks, olives, and crunchy nuts for textural contrast. Garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs or a few red pepper flakes adds a pop of color and inviting aroma. These tots also make an excellent topping on salads or nestled beside grain bowls for an added crunch and veggie boost.
| Nutrient | Per serving (6 tots) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
For more creative veggie snack ideas, explore our Healthy Vegetable Snacks Collection and broaden your kitchen repertoire with nutritious and exciting recipes!
Q&A
Q&A: Crispy Broccoli Tots – A Tasty Twist on Veggie Snacks
Q1: What exactly are crispy broccoli tots?
A1: Think of traditional tots, but with a green twist! Crispy broccoli tots are bite-sized, golden-brown snacks made primarily from finely chopped broccoli, combined with cheese, breadcrumbs, and a hint of seasoning. They’re a tasty, crunchy way to enjoy your veggies disguised as a fun finger food.
Q2: Why choose broccoli tots over regular potato tots?
A2: While potato tots offer comfort and carbs, broccoli tots pack an extra nutritional punch-loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They deliver the satisfying crunch and savory flavor you crave, but with fewer empty calories and a boost of green goodness.
Q3: How do you achieve that irresistible crispness?
A3: The secret lies in the prep! After finely chopping or pulsing the broccoli, squeeze out excess moisture to prevent sogginess. Then, coat the tots with a crispy breadcrumb layer and bake or air-fry them until they’re golden and crunchy. The contrast between the tender broccoli interior and crispy exterior is what makes them addictive.
Q4: Are broccoli tots kid-friendly?
A4: Absolutely! Broccoli tots are a clever way to sneak veggies onto picky kids’ plates. Their finger-food size and familiar tot shape make them fun to eat, while the cheesy, savory flavor wins over even the tiniest taste buds.
Q5: Can these tots be made vegan or gluten-free?
A5: yes! Swap out dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to keep them allergen-friendly. With a few swaps, everyone can enjoy this tasty twist on veggie snacks.
Q6: what are some creative ways to serve broccoli tots?
A6: Serve them as an appetizer with tangy dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or honey mustard. They also pair perfectly alongside sandwiches, in lunchboxes, or tossed in a salad for a comforting crunch. For an unexpected snack, crumble them over soups or chili like savory croutons.Q7: how long do broccoli tots keep and can they be frozen?
A7: Broccoli tots stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. They freeze beautifully-simply bake or air-fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to crisp back up. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead snack or side dish.Q8: What inspired the creation of broccoli tots?
A8: The broccoli tot arose from a desire to transform a humble vegetable into a fun,crave-worthy snack. It’s all about reinventing classic comfort foods with a healthful twist-making veggie love accessible, tasty, and exciting!
Crispy broccoli tots aren’t just a snack; they’re a party of flavor, texture, and good-for-you ingredients all rolled into one perfect bite. Ready to add some crunch to your veggie game? Give these tots a try and watch them disappear from your plate!
in Summary
Whether you’re looking to sneak more greens into your diet or simply crave a crunchy,flavorful bite,crispy broccoli tots offer a delightful solution that satisfies both taste buds and nutritional goals. These golden nuggets transform humble broccoli into an irresistible snack, perfect for any occasion-from family gatherings to solo munching sessions.So next time you want to bring a little veggie magic to your plate, remember: sometimes the crunchiest, most comforting treats come from the simplest ingredients. Give these crispy broccoli tots a try,and watch your love for veggies grow-one tasty tot at a time.
