Baked Cheddar Broccoli Bliss Bites

Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are Easy My KidFriendly Bliss Bites

By Elara MaeveSeptember 7, 2025

Table of Contents

Craving Something Cheesy and Sneaky Healthy?

Ever get that hankering for something cheesy but feel a bit guilty? Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are the answer, mate! Honestly, these little Broccoli Cheddar nuggets are a game changer.

Broccoli Cheddar Tots: A Flashback and a Twist

Broccoli Tater Tots might sound like something your mum forced on you. But trust me, this ain't your average veggie dish.

This is like taking those cheesy broccoli bakes you had growing up and making them way more fun. Plus, they're a bit posh.

EatingWell inspired, so you know they're legit.

These Cheesy Broccoli Bites aren't just a side dish; they are a healthier way to get the kids (and let's be honest, yourself) to eat their greens.

Ready in under an hour, it's a quick and easy Easy Broccoli Side Dish for those nights when you need a win.

This recipe makes about 4 servings of these tasty delights!

Why You'll Love These Healthy Broccoli Tots

One of the best things about this Healthy Broccoli Tots Recipe is how sneakily healthy they are. All that Broccoli Cheddar goodness packed into little bites.

Plus, these are great for anyone looking for kid friendly vegetable recipes, especially for picky eaters. Serve these as Broccoli and Cheese Appetizers at your next party, and watch them disappear!

Now, let's get to the good stuff the ingredients you'll need. I'm telling you, these Baked Broccoli Snacks are about to become a staple in your house.

You won't believe how easy they are!

Okay, let's get into the nitty gritty of what you need for these amazing bites. Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are surprisingly simple! You know? Don't be intimidated! I promise, if I can do it, anyone can.

Honestly, I once set fire to toast...

Let's Talk Ingredients: Broccoli Cheddar Goodness

Main Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Alright, here's the shopping list for your Healthy Broccoli Tots Recipe . We’re aiming for delish, not disastrous.

1 pound (450g) broccoli florets: Fresh is best! Look for tightly closed, deep green florets. Avoid anything yellowing or slimy. Seriously, slimy broccoli? No thanks.
1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil: Extra virgin is always a good shout.
½ cup (60g) finely chopped yellow onion: Adds a touch of sweetness.
1 clove garlic, minced: Because everything's better with garlic!
1 large egg: To bind it all together.
½ cup (60g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Go for a proper mature cheddar. It’s worth it for the flavour. We need cheese, we need flavour and we need those yummy Broccoli Cheddar vibes!.
¼ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that salty, umami punch.
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour: Helps hold the shape.
¼ teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key!
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground, if you’re feeling fancy.
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): For a tiny kick.

Seasoning Notes for Flavourful Broccoli Tots

Spices are your friends! Don't be shy. A combo of salt, pepper, and a touch of cayenne (if you like a bit of heat) is magic.

For aromatics, the sauteed onion and garlic bring a lovely base flavor. No garlic press? No problem! Just mince it finely.

If you're out of Parmesan, a little nutritional yeast can work in a pinch for a cheesy flavour boost.

Equipment Needed for Easy Broccoli Side Dish

You don't need a fancy kitchen to make these. These Kid-Friendly Vegetable Recipes are all about simplicity.

Large skillet or pot: For steaming or blanching the broccoli.
Baking sheet: The stage for your masterpiece.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking!
Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is your friend, mostly.
Cheese grater: Unless you're buying pre-shredded.
Garlic press (optional): Makes mincing garlic so much easier.

Don't have parchment paper? A lightly oiled baking sheet will do! Just keep an eye on the bottom to prevent burning.

You are aiming for some delicious Broccoli Tater Tots at the end of the process, remember?

Cheesy Broccoli Bites: A Tot-ally Awesome Idea!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good tot? But Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are next level delicious! Forget the frozen aisle. We're making these Broccoli Cheddar Tots from scratch.

They’re surprisingly easy, packed with flavour, and sneak in some veggies too. Think crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. This Healthy Broccoli Tots Recipe is one I keep coming back to.

They are the perfect Broccoli and Cheese Appetizers , a great way to add Easy Broccoli Side Dish into your day!

Prep Like a Pro: The Broccoli Cheddar Game Plan

Before you start, let’s get organised. First, chop up a pound of broccoli into small florets. You want them bite sized.

Next, grab your onion and garlic - give them a good chop. Now shred your cheddar cheese. Organisation is key to time saving and a stress free bake.

My Grandma used to say, "A tidy kitchen is a happy kitchen!".

Tot-ally Simple Steps: Baking Bliss

Okay, let's get baking!

Steam your chopped broccoli for about 3 minutes , until tender crisp. Don't overcook, or they'll get mushy!
Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
Mix the broccoli, onion garlic mixture, 1 egg , ½ cup of shredded cheddar, ¼ cup of Parmesan, ¼ cup of flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Form the mixture into small tot shapes and bake for 20- 25 minutes , flipping halfway through.
Cool slightly.

Pro Tot Tips: From Good to Great Broccoli Tots

Want to take your Broccoli Cheddar game to the next level? First, don't skip the parmesan. It gives a fantastic savory punch.

Also, be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the cooked broccoli before mixing!

If you’re making these ahead, form the tots, and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake. You know those store Broccoli Tater Tots never taste the same after freezing.

This way, they're fresh and delicious!

Honestly, these Cheesy Broccoli Bites are brilliant. You will discover that these Baked Broccoli Snacks are a great solution for picky eaters looking for Kid-Friendly Vegetable Recipes . Enjoy, and happy cooking!

Recipe Notes That Make All the Difference

Honestly, creating the perfect batch of Broccoli Cheddar Tots is all about the little things. I’ve made my fair share of Cheesy Broccoli Bites , and trust me, these notes will save you from any potential tot-tastrophes.

After tons of experiments, here are my serving suggestions, some smart storage tips, easy variations, and a few nutrition notes to boost your knowledge.

Serving 'Em Up Right

So, you've just baked a batch of these golden Baked Broccoli Snacks . What's next? Plating is key! Think little skewers for a party, or a simple pile next to a juicy burger.

They are great Broccoli and Cheese Appetizers .

For presentation, a sprinkle of fresh parsley works wonders. Seriously, it's the little things. As for sides, Broccoli Tater Tots pair perfectly with a tangy ranch dressing or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

My kids love them with ketchup, and who am I to judge? For the grown ups, a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc does the trick.

Storing Your Stash

Alright, let's talk leftovers. If you somehow manage to not devour all of the Healthy Broccoli Tots Recipe immediately, proper storage is crucial.

Refrigeration is best: Keep the cooled Broccoli Tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For freezing, spread the fully cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Then, pop them in the freezer for about 2 hours before transferring to a freezer bag.

They'll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 375° F ( 190° C) until heated through and crispy or microwave for 2 minutes .

Mix-It-Up Mania: Variations

Want to get creative? You can tweak these Easy Broccoli Side Dish to fit your needs. Swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack adds a new flavor profile.

For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose. I tested it, and you won't even notice the difference.

Seasonal tip: Add some roasted butternut squash in the fall for a touch of sweetness. Also, If you are looking for Kid-Friendly Vegetable Recipes , consider to mix the tots with some rice to create an easy bowl.

Nutrition Nuggets

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. These Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are surprisingly good for you. They're packed with vitamins from the broccoli.

Plus, the cheddar provides a good dose of calcium. A serving is only about 200-250 calories. They offer a decent amount of protein and fiber, too.

That means you are eating healthy snacks for kids.

Broccoli Cheddar is not just about the taste, but the health benefits. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable and contains antioxidants. I think these are the greatest way to get your veggies.

So there you have it. All my secrets for Broccoli Cheddar Tots success. Go forth and get cooking. You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots a healthy option for kids?

Absolutely! Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are a sneaky way to get those veggies into your little ones (or even the big kids who are picky eaters!). They're packed with the nutrients from broccoli and offer protein and calcium from the cheese.

Compared to traditional fried tots, baking them makes them a much healthier option all around win-win!

Can I freeze Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots? I'm trying to batch cook like a proper domestic goddess (or god!).

You sure can! To freeze, let the Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. Transfer them to a freezer safe bag or container.

When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. They are great for meal prepping.

My Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are falling apart! What am I doing wrong? Is it my oven?

Don't worry, you're not alone! The most common reason for tots falling apart is too much moisture. Make sure your broccoli is thoroughly drained after steaming or blanching squeeze out any excess water.

You can also try adding a bit more flour (a tablespoon at a time) to the mixture to help bind everything together. A slightly firmer mixture will help them hold their shape during baking.

I'm gluten-free. Can I still make these? How would I adapt the recipe so these Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots are gluten-free friendly?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Almond flour or even a mix of rice flour and tapioca starch can also work well. Just be sure to check the ingredient list of your chosen gluten-free flour to ensure it's a 1:1 replacement for all-purpose flour for the best results.

What kind of cheese works best in Baked Cheddar Broccoli Tots? Can I be adventurous?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, providing a lovely tang and melty texture. However, don't be afraid to experiment! Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even Pepper Jack would all be delicious.

Just be mindful of the moisture content of the cheese you choose; drier cheeses tend to work best in helping to bind the tots together. You can also mix cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.