Description
Air Fryer Broccoli Ranch Tots are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy goodness and wholesome vegetables. These ranch-seasoned tots deliver satisfying crunch and flavor with a healthy twist, making them ideal for snacks, appetizers, or side dishes. Quick to prepare and kid-approved, they’re a delicious way to add more greens to your day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Frozen broccoli (thawed): 1 (10 oz.) bag (~3 cups)
- Large eggs: 2, beaten
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1½ cups
- Panko bread crumbs: 1 cup
- Ranch seasoning: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil cooking spray: As needed
Optional Dipping Sauce
- Ketchup
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo
- Garlic aioli
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Pat the thawed broccoli dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the broccoli to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped (not pureed).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- Chopped broccoli
- Beaten eggs
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Panko bread crumbs
- Ranch seasoning
- Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
- Lightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking.
- Scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a tot by pressing and rolling between your palms.
- Place the formed tots on a plate.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for a few minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Tots
- Arrange the tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Spray the tops of the tots lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400°F for 9–11 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through and spraying them again with cooking spray.
- The tots are done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the cooked tots to a serving platter.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo.
Notes
- Dry the Broccoli: Ensure the broccoli is as dry as possible to achieve crispy tots.
- Don’t Overfill the Basket: Cook the tots in a single layer for even crisping.
- Use Cooking Spray: A light spray of oil enhances crispiness without adding extra calories.
- Uniform Shape: Use a tablespoon to measure the mixture for evenly cooked tots.
- Extra Flavor: Add Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American