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Sierrah Schmidt

Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Tots (Perfect Toddler Lunch Idea)

5 from 1 vote
These easy homemade broccoli cheddar tots are packed with veggies and perfect for toddlers! Soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and freezer-friendly—made without breadcrumbs for a cleaner, wholesome lunch or snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 30 Tots
Course: lunch, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack, toddler meal
Cuisine: American, kid-friendly, vegetarian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cup steamed, finely chopped broccoli
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder optional
  • 1/4 tsp salt optional

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • measuring spoons and cups
  • Baking sheet
  • parchment paper or non-stick spray

Method
 

  1. Steam your broccoli until tender, then finely chop it. You want it small enough to mix well but not mushy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, flaxseed, and egg. If you’re using salt or garlic powder, add that now too.
  3. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined. It should hold together when pressed—if it’s too wet, let it sit a few minutes or add a little more flax.
  4. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into small tot shapes. You can use your hands or a small cookie scoop to keep them uniform.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it—don’t skip this step or they’ll stick! Arrange the tots in rows with a little space between each.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  7. Let the tots cool a few minutes before serving. They crisp up more as they cool, and little hands won’t get burned.

Notes

  • Pan prep matters!
    These tots will stick if you don’t grease your baking sheet or use parchment paper. I learned that the hard way, so save yourself the trouble and prep that pan.
  • Skip the breadcrumbs.
    I used flaxseed instead of breadcrumbs to keep these on the healthier side, but you could sub in regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer.
  • Want more flavor?
    Add a pinch of salt or a little garlic powder if your toddler is used to bolder flavors. I left it out this time for my youngest, but it’s totally up to you.
  • Freezer-friendly.
    Once cooled, you can freeze these tots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag or container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warm and crispy.