Broccoli Tots
Are you searching for a delicious and nutritious snack that the whole family will love? Look no further than these delightful Broccoli Tots! Packed with flavor and a plethora of health benefits, these tots are a great way to sneak in some greens while satisfying cravings for crunchy, cheesy goodness. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal, these Broccoli Tots are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
These Broccoli Tots are not just easy to whip up; they also come with an array of benefits that will make you want to add them to your weekly meal plan. The combination of vibrant broccoli, rich cheeses, and simple seasonings creates a bite-sized treat that is both satisfying and nutritious. They are oven-baked, which means less guilt and more enjoyment. Plus, they are incredibly versatile—serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to a hearty meal. Once you try them, you might just find yourself making them on repeat!
Ingredient Breakdown
To make these irresistible Broccoli Tots, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- 4 Cups Riced Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, this is the star ingredient that brings vibrant color and nutrition.
- 1 Large Egg: Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together.
- ½ Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- ½ Cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty kick that complements the other ingredients.
- ½ Cup All-Purpose Flour: Helps to bind the mixture and gives it a crispy texture.
- ½ Cup Grated Onion: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 Clove Garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic touch!
- ½ Teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ Teaspoon Ground Pepper: Adds a slight kick.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you dive into making your Broccoli Tots, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Grater: To grate onion and cheese.
- Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: Perfect for portioning out the mixture.
- Oven: Preheat to ensure your tots bake evenly.
Stepwise Method: Broccoli Tots
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by ricing your broccoli. If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop it into small pieces and pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice. If you’re using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and drain any excess moisture.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the riced broccoli, grated onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar, shredded parmesan, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Form the Tots
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, portion out the mixture and shape it into small tot-shaped bites. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the Broccoli Tots for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once they are done baking, remove the tots from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to customize your Broccoli Tots, consider these swaps:
- Cheese Alternatives: Use mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Flour Options: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Onion Replacement: Green onions or shallots can be used in place of regular onion for a milder taste.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in some cooked quinoa or corn for added texture and nutrition.
Avoid These Traps
When making your Broccoli Tots, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Too Much Moisture: Ensure your broccoli is well-drained to prevent soggy tots. If using frozen broccoli, squeeze out excess water.
- Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain a nice texture.
- Skipping the Bake Time: Don’t rush the cooking process. A proper bake time is essential for achieving that crispy exterior.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and browning.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
If you find yourself with leftover Broccoli Tots, no worries! Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Store any uneaten tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also freeze the uncooked tots. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook them, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes! Just make sure to steam or lightly cook the fresh broccoli before ricing it to soften it up and make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
What if my tots fall apart while baking?
This could be due to too much moisture in the mixture. Be sure to drain your broccoli well, and consider adding a little more flour to help bind everything together.
How can I make these tots spicier?
Feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for an extra kick!
Are these Broccoli Tots suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They are perfect for meal prep. Just prepare a batch at the start of the week for quick snacks or sides throughout the week.
If you enjoyed these Broccoli Tots, you might also love:
Final Thoughts
Broccoli Tots are a fun and creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and oh-so-delicious! Whether you’re serving them as a snack for the kids, a side dish at dinner, or a tasty treat for yourself, these tots will not disappoint. Make them once, and you’ll want to find every excuse to enjoy them again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into the delicious world of Broccoli Tots!
Broccoli Tots
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by ricing your broccoli. If you're using fresh broccoli, chop it into small pieces and pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice. If you're using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and drain any excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the riced broccoli, grated onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar, shredded parmesan, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, portion out the mixture and shape it into small tot-shaped bites. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the Broccoli Tots for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once they are done baking, remove the tots from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Freeze uncooked tots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for later baking.
