Name: Crispy Broccoli Tots: A Fun, Healthy Snack for Everyone
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 2 large eggs (can substitute with chia eggs for vegan option); 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional); 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar/parmesan) (dairy-free cheese for vegan option); 1/2 cup almond/oat flour (or breadcrumbs as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant green of fresh broccoli caught my eye and sparked an idea—why not transform this nutritious veggie into a fun snack? Enter my Easy Gluten-Free Broccoli Tots, the perfect solution for anyone looking to sneak more vegetables into their meals! These delectable bites offer a delightful crispy exterior and a warm, cheesy center that will delight both kids and adults alike. Best of all, they’re quick to whip up, making them a fantastic go-to for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings. Whether you serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce or as a tasty side dish, I promise these broccoli tots will leave you craving more. Curious about how to make these veggie-loaded gems? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Broccoli Tots a Must-Try?

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, these tots are not only delicious but also bursting with essential vitamins. Each bite offers a nutritious alternative to traditional snacks.

Kid-Friendly and Easy: Perfect for picky eaters, these tots disguise vegetables in a fun, bite-sized form. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your kids will gobble them up!

Versatile Customization: Feel free to switch up the veggies, using cauliflower or carrots, or experiment with different cheeses. The choice is yours!

Quick and Convenient: With just a few simple steps, these healthy snacks are perfect for busy weeknights. Try making a batch ahead of time, and reheat for easy snacking.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these broccoli tots will impress your guests. Serve with your favorite dip, and you’re sure to spark conversations about this delectable dish!

You can also explore other veggie-packed recipes like One Pot Broccoli for a quick meal or Chicken Sausage Broccoli for something heartier. Don’t forget to get creative with your cooking!

Broccoli Tots Ingredients

• Discover the simplicity of creating delicious Broccoli Tots with these essential ingredients!

For the Tots

Broccoli florets – This main ingredient provides bulk and nutrition; you can use fresh or frozen for convenience.
Eggs – Binds the mixture together and adds protein; substitute with chia eggs for a vegan option.
Onion powder – Adds a lovely depth of flavor; can be omitted for those sensitive to onion.
Grated cheese (cheddar/parmesan) – Contributes richness and enhances flavor; try dairy-free cheese to keep it vegan-friendly.
Almond/oat flour – Essential for structure and acts as a gluten-free binder; breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute if preferred.
Italian seasoning – Imparts aromatic herbal notes; adjust based on personal taste preferences.
Garlic powder – Boosts the flavor profile; feel free to adjust or omit according to your liking.
Sea salt – Elevates all the flavors; use sparingly to match your taste.

Happy cooking! Your homemade Broccoli Tots await!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Broccoli Tots

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot for crispy Broccoli Tots. While the oven heats up, prepare a baking sheet by either lightly oiling it or covering it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help you achieve that desirable golden-brown exterior.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Take your fresh or frozen broccoli florets and steam them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender but vibrant green. Quickly transfer the broccoli to a bowl of cold water to halt the cooking process. Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture, which can make your tots soggy.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli
Using a food processor, pulse the cooled broccoli until it reaches a finely chopped texture, being careful not to puree it. If you prefer, you can finely chop the broccoli by hand. The goal is to have small pieces that blend well with the other ingredients, ensuring your Broccoli Tots have a delightful green flavor throughout.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with eggs, grated cheese, almond or oat flour, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and sea salt. Use a spatula to mix everything together thoroughly until you achieve a cohesive mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring your Broccoli Tots hold their shape and flavor.

Step 5: Shape the Tots
Grab a tablespoon of the broccoli mixture and use your hands to form small balls or oval-shaped tots. Wetting your hands with a little water can help prevent sticking. Place each formed tot on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart to allow for even cooking and crisping.

Step 6: Bake the Tots
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the broccoli tots for 20–25 minutes. About halfway through, carefully flip each tot to promote even browning on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, inviting you to take a bite.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Broccoli Tots are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are perfect served warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup or ranch. Enjoy these delightful veggie bites as a snack or side dish that will please both kids and adults alike!

How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Tots

Fridge: Store leftover Broccoli Tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled to maintain their texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Broccoli Tots in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours. Then transfer to a freezer-friendly container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To reheat, place frozen Broccoli Tots in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer for about 5 minutes, until warmed through and crispy again.

Cooling: Always allow the tots to cool completely before freezing to maintain their quality and prevent ice crystals from forming.

Expert Tips for Broccoli Tots

Properly Drain Broccoli: Ensure your broccoli is thoroughly drained after steaming. Excess moisture can lead to soggy tots, ruining their crispy texture.
Chop, Don’t Puree: When processing the broccoli, pulse it until finely chopped but not pureed. You want texture in your Broccoli Tots, not a smooth mixture.
Wet Your Hands: To make shaping the tots easier, keep your hands damp. This simple tip prevents the broccoli mixture from sticking to your fingers.
Evenly Space on Sheet: Place the shaped tots at least an inch apart on the baking sheet. This promotes even cooking and helps achieve that coveted crispy exterior.
Adjust Cooking Time: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your tots as they bake, flipping them halfway through for a uniform golden-brown finish.
Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try swapping out ingredients or adding different spices to your Broccoli Tots for a fun twist.

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten-Free Broccoli Tots are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor the deliciousness any night of the week! You can prepare the broccoli mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply steam and chop the broccoli, mix it with the other ingredients, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, avoid baking them until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your Broccoli Tots, just shape them into tots and bake as directed, ensuring you get that perfect crispy exterior with minimal effort. This way, you’ll always have a quick, veggie-loaded snack ready to go!

What to Serve with Easy Gluten-Free Broccoli Tots

Bright, crispy bites of broccoli goodness call for delightful accompaniments that enhance your meal.

Creamy Dip: Pair with a rich ranch or avocado dip for a burst of creamy texture and flavor. It makes these tots even more irresistible!
Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Serve alongside crunchy carrot and cucumber sticks. This pairing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the warm, cheesy tots.
Mini Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing provides a fresh contrast to the warm, savory bites. This ensures a well-rounded meal.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness and crispy texture create a wonderful contrast with the savory broccoli tots, making for a fun and delicious experience.
Apple Sauce: A side of warm apple sauce offers a touch of sweetness, providing a delightful palette cleanser between bites of savory goodness.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refresh with a cool glass of lemonade or iced tea. Their sweetness balances the savory flavors of the broccoli tots and enhances the overall dining experience.

Broccoli Tots: Fun and Flavorful Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful treats and customize them to suit your palate!

Cauliflower Swap: Replace broccoli with cauliflower for a milder taste while maintaining the same lovely texture.
Cheese Variation: Use mozzarella for a creamy twist or feta for a tangy bite that adds another layer of flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for some heat, making these tots more exciting for spice lovers.
Veggie Medley: Combine various veggies like carrots, zucchini, or spinach for an even more nutrient-packed snack that’s bursting with color!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil to elevate the aroma and flavor profile of your tots.
Breadcrumb Crunch: Substitute almond flour with gluten-free breadcrumbs for extra crunch and a delightful texture.
Vegan Delight: Swap eggs for chia eggs and cheese for dairy-free alternatives to create a fully plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
Baked vs. Air Fried: For a quicker option, shape the mixture into smaller patties and air fry them for 5-7 minutes for a crispy delight without the wait.

Now that you know how to customize your broccoli tots, why not check out some other fantastic veggie-packed recipes like Chinese Beef Broccoli or Broccoli Pasta Deliciously for your next family meal? Happy cooking!

Broccoli Tots Recipe FAQs

What type of broccoli should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli florets for this recipe. If you’re using fresh, just wash and chop them into small pieces. Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver—just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid soggy tots.

How do I store leftover broccoli tots?
For sure! Store leftover Broccoli Tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before storing to help maintain their crispy texture. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet!

How can I freeze broccoli tots?
Very simple! First, allow the cooked broccoli tots to cool entirely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. After that, transfer the tots to a freezer-friendly container or bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Remember to label the container with the date!

Why are my broccoli tots mushy?
Oh no! If your tots turn out mushy, it’s likely because there was too much moisture in the broccoli. Be sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly after steaming. You can also adjust the amount of flour in the recipe for better binding. If this happens again, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour during mixing!

Are broccoli tots suitable for those with allergies?
Absolutely! Feel free to tailor the recipe to fit dietary restrictions. Egg replacements like chia eggs can make it vegan-friendly, and using dairy-free cheese will accommodate lactose intolerant folks. Just keep in mind the specific allergies of your guests, and adjust the ingredients accordingly.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen broccoli tots?
For the best results, reheat frozen broccoli tots in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Alternatively, for a quicker option, toss them in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness beautifully!

I hope these FAQs help you master these delicious Broccoli Tots! Enjoy the cooking!