The moment I took my first bite of these crispy broccoli tots, it felt like a delicious secret had been unlocked. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, these little delights are a game-changer for snack time, making them an ideal choice for both adults and the littlest foodies. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these broccoli tots are not only a great way to sneak in some veggies but also suitable for babies as young as six months—how fantastic is that? They’re a snappy alternative to fast food and can be whipped up quickly, making them a go-to snack for busy families. Whether you’re preparing lunch for your kids or craving a little something for yourself, these tots will satisfy every palate. Curious about how to make these vibrant bites? Let me walk you through the delightful journey of creating your new favorite snack!
Why Make Broccoli Tots?
Nutritious and Fun: These tots are not just tasty; they pack a wholesome punch of nutrients that both kids and adults will appreciate.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip these up in no time, perfect for those busy days.
Kid-Approved: They’re crispy, cheesy, and fun to eat—ideal for the pickiest eaters in your family!
Versatile Dipping Options: Pair them with your favorite dips, like hummus or lemon yogurt dip to add even more flavor to snack time.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick snacks later; they’re just as delicious reheated!
Are you ready to bring some veggie goodness into your home with these delicious broccoli tots?
Broccoli Tots Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up these delicious Broccoli Tots with simple, wholesome ingredients!
For the Tots
- Broccoli – Fresh broccoli serves as the star ingredient; steam or boil for a tender texture.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder, adding protein; substitute with chickpea flour and water for an egg-free option.
- Almond Meal/Flour – Brings structure and a nutty flavor; swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour if preferred.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness and a cheesy flair; use mozzarella for a lower-sodium alternative.
- Garlic – Provides a lovely depth of flavor; fresh is best, but adjust to your taste.
- Salt (optional) – Enhances overall flavor; skip it for baby servings for a healthier option.
Now that you have the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy these healthy, veggie-packed snacks!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Broccoli Tots
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the broccoli tots from sticking. Make sure the oven is fully heated before you move on to steam your broccoli, as this will help achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Cut fresh broccoli into small florets, and don’t forget to peel and slice the tough outer skin from the stems for added texture. Place the stem pieces in a steamer, steaming them for 1 minute before adding the florets. Continue steaming the florets for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender and vibrant, ready to be mashed into your broccoli tots mixture.
Step 3: Chop the Cooked Broccoli
Once your broccoli is steamed, drain it well to remove excess moisture. Finely chop the broccoli and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial; make sure the broccoli is chopped well but not over-processed, as maintaining some texture will give your broccoli tots a delightful bite.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In the bowl with the chopped broccoli, add in eggs, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, almond meal, and minced garlic. Using a fork or your hands, mix everything together until well combined, mashing any larger pieces of broccoli as you go. The mix should be moist but hold together well; this is where all the flavors come together for your delicious broccoli tots.
Step 5: Form the Tots
With your mixture ready, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and shape them into tot forms. Place each tot on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between them for even baking. This step is not only fun but also allows each broccoli tot to get that crispy exterior as they bake.
Step 6: Optional Crisping Step
If you’d like an extra crunch, lightly spray the tops of the formed tots with cooking oil. This small addition can enhance the crispiness while baking, giving your broccoli tots an appealing golden color. Once done, they’re ready to go in the oven!
Step 7: Bake the Tots
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the broccoli tots for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, they’re ready to come out! Let them cool for a few moments before serving, so they hold their shape beautifully.
Step 8: Serving Suggestions
Serve your crispy broccoli tots fresh out of the oven with a variety of dips like hummus, lemon yogurt dip, or avocado dip. These snacks are not just inviting to look at but are perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing everyone together to enjoy the goodness of vegetables!
What to Serve with Crispy Broccoli Tots?
The delightful crunch of these veggie-packed bites sets the stage for a fulfilling meal that all ages will enjoy.
- Hummus: Creamy and rich, hummus adds a protein boost that perfectly offsets the crispy exterior of the tots. Pairing these two makes for an irresistible snack.
- Avocado Dip: Smooth and buttery, avocado dip complements the broccoli’s freshness while adding a delightful creaminess. It’s a perfect match that makes every bite utterly satisfying.
- Lemon Yogurt Dip: Tart and zesty, this dip elevates the tots with a refreshing twist. The citrus notes brighten up this healthy treat and add a burst of flavor to each bite.
- Carrot Sticks: Crunchy and sweet, they provide a contrasting texture and a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavor of the tots.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette brings freshness to the table, creating a well-rounded meal that enhances the richness of the tots.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet flavor profile and a crispy texture, creating a delightful experience that kids will love. Together, they make for a kid-friendly feast!
- Fruit Skewers: Colorful and sweet, these fruity bites bring a refreshing contrast to the savory broccoli tots, enticing little ones and big kids alike.
- Sparkling Water or Lemonade: A light drink option that adds a fizzy flair and refreshing taste, rounding out a vibrant snack time experience.
With these pairings, you’ll create a fun and delicious meal that complements the delightful savoriness of the crispy broccoli tots!
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Tots
Fridge: Store baked broccoli tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick snacking!
Freezer: Freeze uncooked shaped tots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—perfect for future snacks!
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen broccoli tots at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until crisp. For refrigerated ones, heat in the oven for 10-15 minutes.
Room Temperature: If left out at room temperature, consume broccoli tots within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Tots
Avoid Over-Processing: Keep the broccoli chunky to ensure that your tots have a delightful texture. Over-mixing can lead to a mushy result.
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix cheeses based on what you have on hand. Combining sharp cheddar with mozzarella can add creaminess and flavor variation.
Perfect Cooking Time: Monitor your broccoli tots as they bake; removing them when they’re golden-brown will ensure they don’t overcook and become dry.
Freezing for Later: Shape and freeze uncooked tots for easy future snacks. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Monitor Babies Carefully: If serving to little ones, keep an eye on them while eating to avoid potential choking hazards; always supervise during mealtimes.
These tips will help you create the perfect broccoli tots that everyone in the family will love!
Broccoli Tots Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your own spin to these delicious broccoli tots, making them even more delightful and suited to your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Swap almond meal for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour to maintain a delightful texture.
- Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a creamier texture or extra heat respectively. Mixing cheeses can elevate the flavor profile beautifully!
- Egg-Free Option: Replace the eggs with a mixture of chickpea flour and water for an equally delicious but egg-free version. This makes them more accessible for different diets.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture for an aromatic twist that livens up every bite. Each herb offers a unique flavor enhancement.
- Nut-Free Alternative: If you’re avoiding nuts, use breadcrumbs instead of almond meal or flour to keep it allergy-friendly.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate some finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the mixture for those who enjoy a little heat in their snacks.
- Vegetable Boost: Consider adding in finely grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and sneaky nutrition. The kids won’t even notice!
- Dipping Delight: Experiment with different dips like Hummus or Avocado Dip for a fun flavor combination that caters to everyone’s taste.
Your broccoli tots can become whatever you envision! So feel free to experiment and find new favorites that your family will adore.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy broccoli tots are a fantastic meal prep option for busy home cooks! You can prepare the mixture of broccoli, eggs, cheese, and almond meal up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also form the tots and freeze them for up to 3 months—just place them on a baking sheet and freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, but increase the baking time to ensure they reach that delicious golden-brown finish. This way, you’ll always have a veggie-packed snack ready to go, making your busy day a little easier!
Broccoli Tots Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best broccoli for my tots?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets that are tightly packed and not showing any dark spots or yellowing. Fresh broccoli stands out with firm stems and a fresh, earthy smell. Avoid any heads that feel limp or soft, as they may not cook well.
How should I store leftover broccoli tots?
To keep your broccoli tots fresh, store the baked tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to let them cool completely first! When you’re ready to snack, simply reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
Can I freeze broccoli tots, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your broccoli tots! After shaping them but before baking, place the tots on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm (approximately 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes.
What should I do if my broccoli tots fall apart while baking?
Very! If your tots are crumbling, here are a few troubleshooting tips: First, make sure the broccoli and other wet ingredients aren’t too watery, as excess moisture can cause them to fall apart. Secondly, if you find the mixture to be too loose, you can add a bit more almond meal or flour until it holds together well. Lastly, be sure to bake them until they’re golden brown, as they need enough time to firm up in the oven.
Are broccoli tots safe for babies?
Absolutely! These broccoli tots are perfect for babies aged 6 months and older as a part of baby-led weaning. Just ensure that you make them small enough for little hands to grasp. I recommend omitting any added salt, making them healthier for little ones! Always supervise during mealtimes to avoid choking hazards.
Can I customize the ingredients in broccoli tots?
The more the merrier! You can certainly customize your broccoli tots. Try using different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or adding herbs like parsley and dill for extra flavor. If you’re looking to make them gluten-free, replace almond meal with panko breadcrumbs or oat flour. Experimenting with these ingredients can create a delightful variety that suits your family’s taste buds!
Crispy Broccoli Tots – Healthy Fun for the Whole Family
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut fresh broccoli into small florets and steam the broccoli stem pieces for 1 minute, then add the florets and steam for another 3-4 minutes.
- Drain the steamed broccoli and finely chop it, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In the bowl, add in eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, almond meal, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and shape them into tots. Place them on the lined baking sheet.
- Optionally, spray the tops of the tots with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve with various dips like hummus, lemon yogurt dip, or avocado dip.
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