Broccoli & Cheddar Tots: Crispy, Cheesy, Kid-Approved Bites
Imagine golden nuggets that are crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, with tiny green flecks of broccoli hiding in every bite. These Broccoli & Cheddar Tots are the snack that disappears the second they hit the table—perfect for lunchboxes, game-day spreads, or “just one more” moments.
They’re basically tater tots that went to nutrition school: all the comfort, sneaky veggies, and melty cheddar goodness. And the best part? A quick spin with the Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater gives you perfectly uniform shreds that melt beautifully—no clumps, no hassle.
🧀Ingredients (makes about 24 tots)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed soft)
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko works great)
2 large eggs
¼ cup grated Parmesan
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for grown-up heat
🔥Step-by-Step: Golden Tots in 5 Moves
1. Prep the Broccoli
Steam broccoli until fork-tender, then chop very finely (or pulse in a processor until rice-like). Squeeze out every drop of water—dry broccoli = crispy tots.
2. Shred the Cheese
Lock your hand crank cheese grater on the counter. Use the coarse blade for cheddar and the fine blade for Parmesan—fluffy, even shreds that melt like a dream.
3. Mix the Magic
In a big bowl, combine broccoli, both cheeses, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Mix until it holds together like cookie dough.
4. Shape & Chill
Roll into tight 1-inch cylinders or classic tot shapes. Pop the tray in the freezer for a quick chill—this helps them hold shape while baking.
5. Bake or Air-Fry
Arrange on a lined sheet and bake at 400°F until deep golden and crisp all over. Or air-fry for extra crunch. Serve hot with ketchup, ranch, or spicy aioli.
🌟Tips & Twists
Extra Crispy → Roll finished tots in a light dusting of panko before baking.
Make-Ahead → Freeze shaped tots on a tray, then bag them—bake straight from frozen.
Veggie Swap → Try cauliflower or zucchini (just squeeze dry!).
Dipping Game → Mix sriracha into ranch or serve with garlic aioli.
Party Size → Make mini versions for the ultimate finger food.
🥦Conclusion: The Tot That Wins Every Time
These Broccoli & Cheddar Tots are pure crispy-cheesy-veg-packed joy—the kind of snack that vanishes the second it hits the table. With the cheese shredder turning cheddar and Parmesan into perfect fluffy shreds in seconds, every tot melts just right and crisps up like a dream.
