Name: Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-492406H21M23S
Total time: PT-492406H21M23S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon salt (less if needed); 1/4 teaspoon pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 10 reviews

If you’re searching for a fun and delicious way to sneak some extra greens into your meals, this Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These little bites are crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with wholesome broccoli flavor that even picky eaters tend to adore. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you get all the comfort without the grease. Trust me, once you try making these at home, they’ll become a staple in your snack or dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four white bowls and one brown egg arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest white bowl at the top left is filled with fresh green broccoli florets with textured stalks and dense crowns. To the top right, a medium white bowl holds shredded bright orange cheddar cheese strands. Below the broccoli, a small white bowl contains light beige seasoned breadcrumbs with green herb flecks. Next to it, a brown egg sits between the breadcrumb bowl and another white bowl filled with five different dry spices arranged in small piles: black pepper granules, green dried herbs, white salt, pale yellow garlic powder, and light tan onion powder. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a unique role in creating the perfect texture, vibrant color, and rich flavor that make these tots so irresistible.

2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed and chopped finely to create the fresh green base that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and that classic cheesy aroma that tots need to be totally crave-worthy.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: The essential binder that adds structure and crispiness when baked.
1 large egg: Acts as the glue holding all the ingredients perfectly together.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle hint of savory depth that elevates the overall taste.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a gentle sweetness and aromatic complexity.
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the broccoli’s natural goodness.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Just a touch of warmth to balance the mild ingredients.

How to Make Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Steam the Broccoli

Start by steaming your broccoli florets until they’re tender but not mushy—this preserves that lovely green color and fresh flavor. After steaming, finely chop the broccoli so it easily combines with the rest of the ingredients without being chunky. This step sets the stage for bite-sized tots that are tender inside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed—the cheese and spices will infuse each tot with fantastic flavor while the egg and breadcrumbs create the perfect hold.

Step 3: Shape the Tots

Take spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them between your hands until they form small cylinders or ovals, about the size of a tablespoon each. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly shaped; these homemade goodies have rustic charm. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep things mess-free.

Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Pop the tray into your preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake the tots for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll want them golden brown and delightfully crisp on the outside. Oven baking keeps them light but still crunchy, making these tots a guilt-free treat you can feel good about.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

Let your Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe cool for a few minutes before serving so they firm up nicely and aren’t too hot to handle. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and watch how quickly they disappear!

How to Serve Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe

A white plate filled with many small, golden-brown broccoli fritters that have a rough, crispy texture and visible green broccoli pieces inside. The fritters are piled up, some stacked on top of each other, showing uneven shapes and edges. To the right side of the plate, there is a small white bowl filled with bright red sauce that looks smooth. The whole plate is placed on a white marbled surface, and a green broccoli head is partly visible in the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dusting of grated Parmesan, or even a dollop of sour cream transforms these tots from kid-friendly snacks into something elegant enough for a grown-up appetizer. These little touches add layers of flavor and make your presentation shine.

Side Dishes

Homemade Broccoli Tots pair beautifully with a crisp side salad, tangy coleslaw, or even alongside a hearty soup for a comforting meal. They also make a fantastic finger-food option next to grilled chicken or your favorite sandwich.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these tots in a mini taco shell or as a fun topper on pizza for a playful twist that kids and adults alike will rave about. You can also set up a dipping station with ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, and sriracha mayo for a personalized flavor adventure.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh and tasting just as wonderful when you reheat.

Freezing

To freeze, first freeze the tots individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can grab just what you need without thawing the whole batch. They’ll keep well for up to two months.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated tots in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely crunch intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly so your tots don’t become soggy. Press out as much moisture as possible before mixing with the other ingredients.

Is it possible to make these tots vegan?

Yes! Swap out the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and replace the egg with a flax egg or other plant-based binder to keep everything together.

How do I make sure the tots don’t fall apart?

Using enough breadcrumbs and the egg is key to binding the mixture tightly. Make sure to mix well and avoid adding extra moisture. Chopping broccoli finely also helps them hold their shape.

Can I bake these tots instead of frying?

This recipe is designed to be baked, which is what makes them healthier and easier to prepare. Baking creates a crispy exterior without the mess and added oil of frying.

What dipping sauces go best with Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe?

Classic ketchup is always a hit, especially with kids. Other great options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy aioli, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe enough. It’s simple, nourishing, and incredibly versatile, perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing snack. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll fall in love with these crispy, cheesy bites that make broccoli exciting and enjoyable for everyone.

Molly

Homemade Broccoli Tots Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need