Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots

It’s a constant battle in our household to get everyone to eat their greens, especially the little ones. Broccoli, while undeniably nutritious, often gets a less-than-enthusiastic reception. That was until we stumbled upon this recipe for Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots. Let me tell you, these aren’t your average bland veggie bites. They are golden, crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and surprisingly addictive! Even my pickiest eater, who usually declares broccoli his nemesis, gobbled these up without a single complaint, even asking for seconds! The secret? Transforming humble broccoli into fun, bite-sized tots that are baked to crispy perfection. This recipe has become a game-changer in our kitchen, a sneaky (but delicious!) way to load up on vegetables, and a snack that everyone, from toddlers to adults, genuinely enjoys. If you’re looking for a healthy, family-friendly recipe that will convert even the most ardent broccoli skeptics, look no further – these Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are your answer!

Ingredients

• Broccoli Florets: The star of the show! Fresh broccoli florets provide the base for our tots, packed with vitamins and fiber.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and adding richness.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These coarse breadcrumbs are key to achieving that incredible crispy exterior.
• Regular Breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps to bind the mixture further, creating a more cohesive tot.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, savory, and cheesy flavor that complements the broccoli perfectly.
• Finely Minced Onion: Provides a subtle savory depth and aromatic complexity to the tots.
• Minced Garlic: Another flavor booster, adding a pungent and delicious garlicky note.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and seasons the tots perfectly.
• Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and rounds out the overall flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: Used for baking and adds a touch of healthy fat, contributing to the crispy texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli (Steaming is Key!)

Begin by thoroughly washing your broccoli florets under cold water. The size of the florets doesn’t need to be perfectly uniform at this stage, as we’ll be chopping them later. The crucial step here is to steam the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp. This means it should be cooked through but still retain a slight bite and vibrant green color. Overcooked, mushy broccoli will result in soggy tots, and we definitely want to avoid that! You can steam the broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, or until easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart. Alternatively, you can microwave the broccoli with a tablespoon or two of water in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking for tenderness. Once steamed, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve that beautiful green hue. This is an important step to prevent the broccoli from becoming overcooked and losing its vibrant color. Let it cool completely in the ice bath.

Step 2: Finely Chop the Broccoli (The Finer, the Better!)

Now comes the chopping! Drain the cooled broccoli thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy tots, so make sure to remove as much water as possible. Using a sharp knife or a food processor (pulsing gently to avoid making it mushy), finely chop the steamed broccoli florets. The goal is to achieve a texture that’s almost like rice or very small crumbles. Smaller pieces will bind together more effectively and create a smoother tot texture. If you’re using a food processor, be extremely careful not to over-process; you want chopped broccoli, not broccoli puree! If you prefer a more rustic tot, you can leave the broccoli slightly chunkier, but for the best results, aim for a fine chop.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients (Binding for Success!)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, one large egg, panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely minced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined. The egg and breadcrumbs will act as binders, bringing everything together. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there to ensure everything is properly mixed. At this stage, the mixture should be moist but not overly wet. If it seems too wet, you can add a tablespoon or two more of regular breadcrumbs to help absorb excess moisture.

Step 4: Form the Tots (Shaping the Goodness!)

Now it’s time to shape the broccoli mixture into tots! Take approximately a tablespoon of the broccoli mixture at a time and gently roll it between your palms to form small, cylindrical or nugget-shaped tots. Don’t pack them too tightly, as this can make them dense. Aim for a slightly loose but cohesive shape. The size is up to you, but generally, about 1-1.5 inches in length is ideal. If you find the mixture sticky, you can lightly dampen your hands with water or a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the formed tots onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Parchment paper is essential to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup, while a silicone mat can promote even browning. Space the tots evenly on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation and even baking.

Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection (Golden Brown is the Goal!)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the oven is preheated, lightly drizzle or spray the broccoli tots with olive oil. This helps them crisp up beautifully and achieve that golden brown color we’re after. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside. For even browning, flip the tots halfway through the baking time (around 12-15 minutes). Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them to be nicely browned and firm to the touch. The aroma of baking broccoli and Parmesan will fill your kitchen, signaling that these delicious tots are almost ready!

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve (Enjoy the Crispy Delight!)

Once baked to golden perfection, remove the broccoli tots from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up a bit more and makes them easier to handle. Serve them warm and crispy, ideally immediately for the best texture. They are delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. Get creative with your dips – ranch dressing, marinara sauce, sriracha mayo, or a simple yogurt dip all work wonderfully. Enjoy these healthy and delicious Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximately 4 Tots)

• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings (depending on tot size)
• Calories: Approximately 150-180 kcal
• Sodium: 200-250mg (depending on salt added and cheese used)

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes steaming and chopping broccoli)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (baking time)
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight snacks or a healthy appetizer for gatherings.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots

These versatile Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots can be enjoyed in numerous ways! Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Snack:
  • Enjoy them as a healthy and satisfying afternoon snack.
  • Perfect for after-school snacking for kids (and adults!).
  • Pack them in lunchboxes for a fun and nutritious treat.
• As an Appetizer:
  • Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties or gatherings.
  • Arrange them beautifully on a platter with various dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.
  • They are a great alternative to traditional fried appetizers.
• As a Side Dish:
  • Pair them with your favorite main courses for a healthy and flavorful side.
  • Excellent alongside grilled chicken, fish, or burgers.
  • Serve them with vegetarian meals like lentil soup or veggie burgers for added vegetable intake.
• With Dipping Sauces:
  • Classic Ranch Dressing: A timeless favorite that complements the savory tots perfectly.
  • Marinara Sauce: Adds a tangy and Italian-inspired flavor.
  • Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who like a little kick, this creamy and spicy dip is amazing.
  • Garlic Aioli: A creamy and garlicky dip that enhances the savory notes.
  • Hummus: A healthy and Mediterranean-inspired dip that pairs well with vegetables.
  • Cheese Sauce: A decadent and cheesy option for extra indulgence.
  • Yogurt Dip (with herbs): A light and refreshing dip for a healthier choice.

Additional Tips for Perfect Broccoli Tots

To ensure your Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are a resounding success every time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Finely Chop the Broccoli: As mentioned earlier, finely chopped broccoli is crucial for the best texture. Smaller pieces bind together better and create a smoother tot. Don’t be afraid to chop it quite finely.
2. Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Broccoli holds a lot of water, especially after steaming. After chopping, place the broccoli in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This will prevent soggy tots and promote crispiness.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the tots space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in less crispy tots. If necessary, bake in batches.
4. Use Parchment Paper or a Silicone Mat: Lining your baking sheet is essential to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Parchment paper or silicone baking mats work wonders.
5. Preheat the Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the tots in. A hot oven is key for achieving that crispy exterior.
6. Bake Until Golden Brown: Don’t be afraid to let the tots bake until they are nicely golden brown and crispy. This is when they are at their best. The color is a good indicator of doneness.
7. Serve Immediately for Best Crispness: Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are best enjoyed immediately after baking when they are at their crispiest. While they can be reheated, they will lose some of their initial crispness.
8. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding different cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack), spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder), or herbs (Italian seasoning, dried thyme) to the broccoli mixture. Get creative and find your favorite flavor combinations!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots

Q1: Can I make these broccoli tots ahead of time?

A: While Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can prepare the broccoli mixture ahead of time. You can chop the broccoli and mix all the ingredients together, then store the mixture covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Form and bake the tots just before serving for the best results. Baking them ahead and reheating is not recommended as they will lose their crispiness.

Q2: How do I reheat leftover broccoli tots?

A: To reheat leftover broccoli tots and try to regain some crispiness, the best method is to bake them again in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy. Air frying is another good option for reheating; air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Q3: Can I freeze broccoli tots?

A: Yes, you can freeze Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots! For best results, bake the tots as directed, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat from frozen, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You may need to add a few extra minutes of baking time when cooking from frozen.

Q4: Can I make these broccoli tots gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make these broccoli tots gluten-free! Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free if you have severe gluten sensitivities.

Q5: Can I make these broccoli tots dairy-free or vegan?

A: To make these tots dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative. For a vegan version, you’ll need to replace the egg. You can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) or a commercial egg replacer. The texture might be slightly different, but they should still be delicious.

Q6: My broccoli tots are soggy, what did I do wrong?

A: Soggy broccoli tots are usually caused by excess moisture. The most common culprits are: not steaming the broccoli tender-crisp (overcooked broccoli holds more water), not squeezing out enough moisture from the steamed broccoli, or overcrowding the baking sheet (leading to steaming instead of baking). Make sure to follow the instructions carefully, especially the steps for steaming and drying the broccoli.

Q7: Can I use frozen broccoli florets instead of fresh?

A: While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen broccoli florets in a pinch. Make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before steaming or chopping. Frozen broccoli tends to be more watery than fresh, so extra care is needed to remove moisture.

Q8: Are these broccoli tots kid-friendly?

A: Absolutely! Crispy Baked Broccoli Tots are incredibly kid-friendly. The fun tot shape and crispy texture make them much more appealing to children than plain steamed broccoli. They are a fantastic way to sneak in vegetables and get even picky eaters to enjoy broccoli. Serve them with kid-friendly dips like ketchup or ranch dressing for extra appeal.

Print