Are you ready for a snack that’s both crispy and packed with nutrition? In this post, we’ll explore how to make Cheddar Broccoli Tots in an air fryer—a fun twist on healthy eating. With only a few simple ingredients like broccoli, cheddar cheese, and potatoes, you’ll create a tasty treat that everyone will love. Let’s dive in and discover this easy recipe for your next snack time!
Ingredients
To make Cheddar Broccoli Tots in the air fryer, gather these simple ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated potatoes (about 2 medium-sized)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a tasty and crispy snack. The broccoli provides fiber and nutrients, while the cheese adds a rich flavor. Grated potatoes help bind the mixture and give it a nice texture.
I recommend using panko breadcrumbs. They create a crunchier exterior that makes each bite delightful. The egg acts as a binder, holding everything together perfectly. Don’t forget to season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
This combination of ingredients makes your Cheddar Broccoli Tots not only delicious but also fun to eat. Enjoy experimenting with these elements to find your ideal mix!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Broccoli Mixture
First, you need to steam the broccoli. Use about 2 cups of broccoli florets. Steam them until they are tender. Then, chop them finely. This helps the tots hold together. Next, add the chopped broccoli to a large bowl. Now, mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated potatoes. Make sure to combine everything well.
Combining Other Ingredients
Now, it’s time to enhance the flavor. Add 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Add salt and pepper to taste. Finally, pour in 1 beaten egg. This helps bind the mixture together. Stir until all the ingredients mix well.
Cooking Instructions
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, shape the mixture into tots. Use your hands to take small portions and form them into balls the size of golf balls. Then, flatten them slightly. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the tots in a single layer, leaving space between each. Air fry the tots for 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Getting the right texture for your tots is key. The balance of ingredients matters. Use two cups of steamed broccoli, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and one cup of grated potatoes. This mix gives a great base. If you want more crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They are light and crispy. You can also add more breadcrumbs if you like. This helps hold everything together and gives that perfect bite.
Cooking Tips
To cook the tots evenly, use the shaking the basket technique. Halfway through cooking, shake the basket. This helps all sides crisp up well. If your air fryer has different settings, watch the time. Some models cook faster than others. Start with 10 minutes and check for golden brown color. Adjust as needed. Each air fryer is unique, so trust your eyes and nose. Enjoy those crispy bites of goodness!
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can switch up your cheddar broccoli tots by using different cheeses. Try mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese will give the tots a unique flavor.
You can also substitute vegetables in the recipe. Cauliflower works great if you want a milder taste. Just steam and chop it like you do with broccoli. You can mix and match to find your favorite combo.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to add more flavor to your tots? Consider adding spices like chili powder or paprika. Just a pinch can bring warmth and depth to your snack.
Adding fresh herbs is another way to boost flavor. Try parsley or chives for a bright and fresh taste. Mix them in with the other ingredients for that extra pop.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Cheddar Broccoli Tots fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their flavor and texture. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing. They will stay good for about three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Use a freezer-safe bag or container and label it. This way, you can enjoy them later!
Reheating Instructions
The best way to reheat your tots is in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tots in the basket in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back their crispiness. If you want to check, shake the basket halfway through. For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray them with olive oil before reheating. Enjoy your snack just like it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I make these tots ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these tots ahead of time. You can store uncooked tots in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This lets the flavors blend. To do this, form the tots and place them on a tray. Cover them with plastic wrap. If you want to store cooked tots, let them cool first. Then, put them in a sealed container. They last for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
What are the best dipping sauces?
The right sauce makes these tots even better! Here are some popular options:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mustard
- Ketchup
- Honey mustard
- Garlic aioli
Feel free to mix and match these sauces to find your favorite!
How to ensure crispy tots?
To get crispy tots, follow these tips:
- Use panko breadcrumbs. They add extra crunch.
- Make sure the tots are not too big. Smaller sizes cook better.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) before adding the tots.
- Space the tots in the basket. This helps them cook evenly.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get crispy.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect, crispy cheddar broccoli tots every time!
You learned how to make delicious broccoli tots from scratch. We covered the ingredients you need, like cheese and breadcrumbs. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking the tots in an air fryer. You now have tips for the perfect texture, cooking techniques, and even tasty variations. Remember to store leftovers properly and know how to reheat them for the best taste. Enjoy your new snack idea, and feel free to get creative with flavors!
