Broccoli tots with onion and olive oil

Broccoli tots with onion and olive oil are a nutritious and tasty snack, combining steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and onion baked to a crispy finish. This easy recipe makes a great side dish that appeals to both kids and adults.

11 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 12 min

Ingredients:

5 cups broccoli
1 egg
1 egg white egg whites
1/2 cup onion
2/3 cup cheddar cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 tsp olive oil

Broccoli tots with onion and olive oil are a delicious and nutritious snack or side dish, perfect for both kids and adults. Packed with the goodness of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a hint of onion, these tots are easy to make and sure to be a hit at any meal.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Prepare Broccoli:
Boil or steam the broccoli florets until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and let them cool to remove any excess moisture.

3. Chop Broccoli:
Finely chop the cooked broccoli using a knife or pulse it briefly in a food processor. Be careful not to over-process; you want small pieces, not paste.

4. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, whole egg, egg white, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well integrated.

5. Shape Tots:
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into tater tot shapes or small ovals, about the size of a large marble. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in rows. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness.

6. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and crispy, turning them halfway through the baking time for even cooking.

7. Serve:
Remove the tots from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your homemade broccoli tots fresh from the oven, full of flavor and nutrients. These tasty bites are a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and they'll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Broccoli tots with onion and olive oil FAQ:

What is the baking time for broccoli tots?

Bake the broccoli tots in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Turn them halfway through for even cooking.

How do I know when the broccoli tots are done?

The broccoli tots are done when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Can I make substitutions for the cheddar cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, gouda, or vegan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option.

What is the best way to store leftover broccoli tots?

Store leftover broccoli tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What size baking sheet do I need for this recipe?

A standard baking sheet (about 18x13 inches) should work well for this recipe, allowing enough space to arrange the tots without overcrowding.

Tips:

- Steam the broccoli until tender but not mushy to ensure the tots have the perfect texture.

- Make sure to finely chop the onion so it evenly distributes throughout the mixture.

- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into uniform tots for even baking.

- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the tots from sticking and to make for easier cleanup.

- For an extra crispy exterior, you can lightly spray the tots with cooking oil before baking.

- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add some spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 190kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 2.98g
Sugar 2.96g
Fat 10g

Broccoli tots with onion and olive oil