Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these broccoli tots are a delicious way to turn simple ingredients into a family-friendly snack or side dish. Packed with finely chopped broccoli, melty cheese, and wholesome almond meal, they bake up golden and flavorful—perfect for both kids and adults.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A tasty way to enjoy broccoli
These tots make broccoli more appealing by combining it with cheese and garlic, creating a savory bite that even picky eaters enjoy.
Nutritious and satisfying
With eggs for protein and almond meal for healthy fats and added nutrients, these tots are both nourishing and filling.
Freezer-friendly
Make a big batch and freeze them for quick lunches, snacks, or easy side dishes throughout the week.
Versatile serving options
Enjoy them warm from the oven, pack them in lunchboxes, serve them as a side dish, or pair them with your favorite dip.
Simple ingredients
Made with everyday kitchen staples, this recipe is straightforward and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 medium broccoli (about 550 g / 19.5 oz), including florets and stems
2 large eggs
¾ cup (60 g) almond meal or almond flour
¾ packed cup (75 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon salt (optional, omit for babies or reduce as needed)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the broccoli. Cut the florets into medium pieces. Peel the tough outer layer from the stems and chop them into small pieces about 1–2 cm (½–¾ inch) in size.
Cook the broccoli. Steam the stems for 1 minute, then add the florets and steam for another 3–4 minutes until soft. If boiling, ensure the broccoli is very well drained to avoid excess moisture.
Chop finely. Once cooked, finely chop the broccoli on a cutting board. Small pieces help the tots hold their shape.
Mix the ingredients. Transfer the chopped broccoli to a large mixing bowl. Add the eggs, almond meal, grated cheese, minced garlic, and salt (if using). Mix thoroughly, mashing any large broccoli pieces as you stir.
Form the tots. Scoop a heaped tablespoon of mixture and shape it into a small tot. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside. For extra color, lightly spray with oil before baking if desired.
Serve warm with your favorite dip.
Servings and timing
Servings: 23–25 tots
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Use breadcrumbs instead of almond meal
Substitute 60 g (about 1 cup) panko or regular breadcrumbs for a more traditional texture.
Try different cheeses
Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby, or a blend of cheeses. Adding 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan enhances flavor.
Make them dairy-free
Omit the cheese and add 2–3 tablespoons nutritional yeast plus 1 teaspoon lemon zest and a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs for flavor.
Add extra vegetables
Finely grated carrot or zucchini (well squeezed to remove moisture) can be mixed in for added nutrition.
Mini muffin method
Press the mixture into lightly greased mini muffin tins instead of shaping by hand for quicker preparation.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate
Allow the tots to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freeze
Place cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
Reheat
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through. They can also be enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before chopping and mixing.
Can I make these in a food processor?
Yes. Pulse the cooked broccoli briefly until finely chopped, but avoid over-processing into a paste.
Are these suitable for babies?
They can be suitable from around 6 months if common allergens like egg and dairy have already been introduced. Consider reducing or omitting the salt.
Can I replace the almond meal?
Yes. Use 60 g (about 1 cup) breadcrumbs as a substitute.
Why are my tots too soft?
Excess moisture is usually the cause. Make sure the broccoli is well drained and finely chopped.
Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Can I air fry these?
Yes. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
What dips pair well with broccoli tots?
They pair well with lemon yogurt dip, hummus, marinara sauce, or a mild garlic sauce.
Can I freeze them before baking?
Yes. Shape the tots, freeze on a tray until firm, then store in a freezer container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
How do I make them crispier?
Lightly spray with oil before baking and ensure they are spaced apart on the tray to allow proper air circulation.
Conclusion
These broccoli tots are a simple, wholesome recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a crispy, satisfying bite. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack, a toddler-friendly option, or a flavorful vegetable side dish, this recipe delivers both taste and convenience. Make a batch, enjoy them fresh from the oven, and keep extras in the freezer for busy days.
Broccoli Tots are crispy baked bites made with finely chopped broccoli, eggs, sharp cheddar, and almond meal, creating a wholesome and family-friendly snack or side dish.
Ingredients
2 medium broccoli (about 550 g / 19.5 oz), florets and stems
2 large eggs
3/4 cup (60 g) almond meal or almond flour
3/4 packed cup (75 g) sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut broccoli florets into medium pieces. Peel stems and chop into small pieces.
Steam stems for 1 minute, then add florets and steam 3–4 minutes until soft. Drain thoroughly.
Finely chop cooked broccoli on a cutting board.
In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, eggs, almond meal, cheddar cheese, garlic, and salt. Mix well.
Scoop heaped tablespoons of mixture and shape into small tots. Place on prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20 minutes until golden and crisp. Lightly spray with oil before baking for extra color if desired.
Serve warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
Drain broccoli thoroughly to prevent soggy tots.
Finely chopping helps the tots hold their shape.
Spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness.
Freeze in a single layer before transferring to storage container.
Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crisp texture.
