Air Fryer Broccoli Cheddar Tots (Print Version)

Crispy, cheesy broccoli tots made easily in the air fryer, ideal as a wholesome snack or appetizer.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 cups broccoli florets, about 1 medium head
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

→ Dairy

03 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 1 large egg

→ Dry Ingredients

05 - 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
06 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Bring a medium pot of salted water to boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
03 - Finely chop the broccoli or pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice-sized pieces.
04 - In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, onion, cheddar cheese, egg, panko, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined and mixture holds together.
05 - Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of mixture and shape into small cylindrical tot forms. Repeat with remaining mixture.
06 - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Arrange tots in a single layer, leaving adequate space between each piece.
07 - Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crispy.
08 - Serve hot with preferred dipping sauce.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They're crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, hitting every texture craving your family has.
  • No deep frying means less mess and fewer oil splatters on your stove.
  • Even picky eaters suddenly find vegetables worth eating when they're shaped like little golden nuggets.
02 -
  • If your tots are falling apart or seem too wet, your broccoli wasn't dried well enough after blanching, so take extra time patting it dry with paper towels.
  • The flip halfway through is not optional because it's what creates that even golden color and ensures they're crispy all over rather than soft on one side.
03 -
  • Let your mixture rest in the fridge for 15 minutes before shaping if it seems too soft, and you'll find them much easier to handle and form.
  • Don't overcrowd your air fryer basket because even one extra tot can trap steam and prevent that golden crispiness you're after.
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