Easy Broccoli Tater Tots Recipe - Evolving Table (2024)

With a simple trick, you’ll get the crispy, dippable shape in this Cheesy Broccoli Tater Tots recipe without spending a ton of time rolling and forming them. Cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasonings, and few other common spices give the chopped broccoli so much flavor. They’re a fun way to get your veggies in on a busy weeknight, even the kiddos will be going back for seconds.

Easy Broccoli Tots Recipe

Whether traditional potato tots or ahealthier broccoli tater tots recipe, they’re always a HUGE hit with kids and adults alike.

For years I have strayed away from making these a staple in our house for one key reason…

It takes SO much time to roll and shape the tater tot mixture into those cute little shapes!

But then recently I was at a local Austin restaurant and noticed their tots were a little different.

They weren’t perfectly round on the edges, more of a rectangular shape than a cylindrical shape.

And it hit me… there is amuch EASIER way to shape tater tots!By first pre-making the mixture in a baking dish, slicing them into tot shapes, and then returning them to the oven to continue crisping up!

That’s the exact method we’ll use below, so now you can enjoy this kid favorite side dish any night of the week! Your kiddos will be begging for these simple ingredients that are perfectly seasoned and easily prepared. Who knew cheesy broccoli tots could be so good and simple to make?!?

Ingredients

• Broccoli.You’ll need about 1 medium to large head of broccoli for this recipe. Make sure you measure AFTER boiling and chopping the florets.
• Cheese.Both grated or shredded Parmesan and Cheddar cheese add so much flavor to this dish. You can sub in another type of cheese if you prefer. Whatever you do, make sure it’s finely grated so it incorporates easily into the mixture.
• Breadcrumbs.This recipe was tested with Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. Steer clear of Panko bread crumbs, as that will affect the texture.
• Seasonings.Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika round out this recipe.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Tots

Please see the recipe card below for ingredient amounts and more detailed instructions.

1. Boil the Broccoli

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Use a steamer basket for the easiest process.

Add the fresh broccoli to the pot, reduce the heat to medium, and steam for 4 to 5 minutes.The broccoli should be bright green.

2. Finely Chop the Broccoli

Be sure to let the steamed broccoli cool for a few minutes to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a food processor fitted with an S-blade. Pulse broccoli 20 to 30 times. Be sure to scrape down the edges halfway through so everything is chopped. You’ll want 4 cups of broccoli after chopping.

You will end up with a fine crumb with pieces that are no bigger than ¼-inch.

3. Make Broccoli Tot Mixture

Add the broccoli to a large bowl. Then, stir in the whisked eggs, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Use a spatula or wooden spoon tostir until everything is completely combined.

4. Bake in Dish

Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with a piece of parchment paper. This is important so the tots are easy to remove and slice in the next step. Spray any areas still exposed with non-stick cooking spray.

Spread the broccoli tot mixture across the bottom of the pan. Lightly press it down until it’s compacted into the dish.

Bake the tot mixture in a preheated 400℉ oven for 20 minutes.

Alternatively, use a small cookie scoop to get about 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons-sized balls and shape in your hands. Then, adjust the baking time to 25 to 30 minutes and cook as individual pieces.

5. Cut into Tots, Bake, and Serve

After the mixture is partially baked, it’s time to cut it into “tots.”Leave it in the pan, and slice it into squares or rectangles. The best option is 6×6 for squares or 7×5 for that classic rectangular shape.

Add the sliced tots to a parchment paper-lined baking sheetwith the original bottom of the tot now facing up.Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes in a preheated 400°F oven.The cooked broccoli tots should be golden brown.

Serve the tots with some fresh chopped parsley and your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup orHomemade Ranch Dressing.

Are broccoli tots healthier than tater tots?

Yes! Broccoli tots are much healthier than regular tater tots. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates and calories while broccoli is full of good-for-you nutrients and way fewer calories. While they are baked (and not fried), there is still cheese and breadcrumbs, so enjoy in moderation.

What are broccoli tots made of?

Broccoli tots are similar to the potato variety but made with steamed broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs instead of grated potatoes.

FAQs

What to Serve with Broccoli Tots

The entire family will LOVE these broccoli tots as a tasty snack or side, especially alongside these main dishes.

Whip upApricot Chicken,Baked BBQ Chicken, orBaked Honey Mustard Chicken.

The kiddos might also enjoy other sides, likeAir Fryer Yukon Gold Potatoes,Instant Pot Glazed Carrots, orAir Fryer Zucchini Chips.

More Broccoli Recipes

Don’t miss out on these easy and healthy broccoli recipes next.

• Honey Roasted Broccoli
• Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Broccoli
• How to Steam Broccoli in the Microwave
• Broccoli Slaw