Cheesy Broccoli Tots Snack Recipe

Meal-prepping on Sunday can become a fun little ritual, especially when I can whip up something that excites me all week long. This recipe for cheesy broccoli tots is a perfect match, and it reminds me of my kids’ playful enthusiasm during snack time. It’s comforting knowing that I’ve included a wholesome vegetable into their day in such a fun form.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Tots Snack Recipe

These broccoli tots have been a delightful addition to my meal prep, making it easy to savor something nutritious during busy weekdays. I’ve noticed the kids actually love picking these up, and getting them to eat broccoli has never been easier! Plus, they crisp up so nicely in the oven, creating a crunchy outside that perfectly contrasts the cheesy, savory inside.

When you take a bite, you can feel that satisfying crunch, which I think is crucial in making vegetables more appealing. It turns out that a little creative presentation can change everything when it comes to how we enjoy our food.

What Makes this Recipe Unique

• Crispy Exterior: The combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates a delightful crunch that enhances each bite.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned spices enliven the naturally mild taste of broccoli, making it a standout snack.

• Convenient Meal Prep: These tots are easy to make in batches, allowing for quick snacks or sides throughout the week.

• Satisfying Texture: The creamy cheese blended with the tender broccoli provides a comforting, rich feel that invites you to keep coming back for more.

Estimated Macros & Calories

Here’s a helpful look at the nutritional profile for these cheesy broccoli tots.

(estimated per serving, without optional ingredients)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g

The Most Authentic Cheesy Broccoli Tots Snack Recipe

This cheesy broccoli tots recipe is a straightforward way to enjoy a savory snack that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Using simple ingredients, you’ll end up with a baked treat that is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, perfect for afternoon snacks or parties.

Craving more? Try my Healthy Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo.

Ingredient Notes

• Cooked Broccoli: This ingredient provides moisture and flavor, making it the base of the dish. Finely mincing it helps distribute its taste evenly.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers a bold, cheesy flavor that enhances the overall richness of the tots. I like using sharp cheddar for that extra zest.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds an Italian twist with its distinct nutty flavor while helping create a crispy crust during baking.

• Breadcrumbs: They give structure and crunch to the tots, making each bite just right. You can easily swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

• Egg: Acts as a binder, helping everything stick together. It also adds a bit of protein to the mix, making the dish even heartier.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Next, steam the broccoli florets until tender, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to let them cool slightly before you chop them finely.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, minced parsley, beaten egg, and spices. Stir everything thoroughly until well combined.

Step 4: Create the Coating

In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan. This will be the crunchy coating that adds so much to the texture.

Step 5: Shape the Tots

Shape the broccoli mixture into small, uniform tots. Don’t skip rolling them in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a good coating.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Arrange the tots on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crisp.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent the tots from getting crispy.

Also, be careful not to overmix your ingredients when combining them; you want to keep that fluffy texture.

Let your tots cool slightly before serving, which helps them firm up and hold together better.

Storage Tips

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. They reheat well in the oven, which helps to retain their crispiness.

If planning to make them ahead, try to freeze them before baking; that way, you can enjoy fresh-tasting tots whenever the craving hits!

Variations and Substitutions

For a different flavor, consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers or green onions to the mix.

If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute vegan cheese for the sharp cheddar and Parmesan.

Swap in crushed cornflakes for a crunchier coating if you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand.

For an extra protein boost, serving these tots with a side of Greek yogurt dip can create a satisfying snack.

Why This Recipe Is The Real Deal

The texture here is what truly brings the cheesy broccoli tots to life. Each bite offers a delightful combination of crunch from the coating and creaminess from the cheese and broccoli. I find that this contrast makes them irresistible, especially for anyone who might typically shy away from vegetables.

Another favorite of mine is the Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots.

But it’s more than just the texture. The way sharp cheddar melds beautifully with tender broccoli and creates that gooey center is what makes this recipe work so well. It’s a routine win at our dinner table or for a snack in between.

More High Protein Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, these easy ideas are a great next step:

• Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli
• Loaded Beef and Potato Casserole
• Easy Honey Garlic Kielbasa Dinner
• Easy Keto Hamburger Broccoli Skillet
• Easy Broccoli Chickpea Pasta Recipe

Want more? Browse all of our high protein dinner recipes or explore the full high protein recipes collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Give these cheesy broccoli tots a try, and I trust you’ll find them just as enjoyable as I do. They’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish during a meal. Let me know how yours turn out!

If you like this one, you will also love my Easy Keto Reuben Casserole Recipe.

Print Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Tots Snack Recipe

These delicious Cheesy Broccoli Tots are a crispy, savory snack that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of cheese, perfect for all ages.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time22 minutes mins

Total Time37 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Keyword: cheesy broccoli tots recipe, high protein, high protein dinner

Servings: 24

Calories: 36kcal

Ingredients

Vegetables and Cheeses

• 2 cups cooked and finely minced broccoli
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients

• 0.5 cup whole wheat or panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.125 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped for added flavor and color

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
• In a saucepan, steam the broccoli florets until tender, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before finely chopping.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, minced parsley, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully mixed.
• In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan to create a crunchy coating.
• Shape the broccoli mixture into small, uniform tots. Roll each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a good coating.
• Arrange the tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Notes

For a fun twist, serve these broccoli tots with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or sriracha mayo for extra flavor.

These tots can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking. Just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer when you're ready to cook.