Zucchini Tots are a fun and flavorful way to add more vegetables to your meals. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients, all while being lower in carbs than their potato-based cousins. Easy to make and kid-friendly, they’re a great way to use up summer zucchini and can be baked or air-fried for a guilt-free treat. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a creative side dish, these tots are a winner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Zucchini (grated and well-drained)
Egg
Shredded cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grate the zucchini using a box grater, then place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix until well combined.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and shape them into small, oval tots using your hands.
Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 tots, serving 4–6 people as a snack or side dish. Preparation takes 15 minutes, and baking takes 20 minutes, for a total of approximately 35 minutes.
Variations
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
Add Protein: Mix in finely chopped cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-sensitive version.
Air Fryer Method: Cook tots in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover zucchini tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–8 minutes or in an air fryer for 3–5 minutes until warmed and crispy. They can also be frozen after baking—reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
FAQs
How do I keep zucchini tots from getting soggy?
Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible before mixing.
Can I freeze zucchini tots?
Yes, freeze them after baking. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Are zucchini tots keto-friendly?
They can be if you use almond flour or rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely. You may need extra breadcrumbs for binding.
What can I serve with zucchini tots?
They pair well with ketchup, ranch, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Can I fry zucchini tots instead of baking?
Yes, pan-fry them in a bit of oil until golden on all sides, but baking is the healthier option.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely, yellow squash works similarly—just be sure to drain it well.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is thin and nutritious—just wash the zucchini well before grating.
Can I make mini muffins instead of tots?
Yes, bake the mixture in a mini muffin tin for 15–18 minutes for a different presentation.
Conclusion
Zucchini Tots are a delicious and wholesome way to enjoy vegetables in a crispy, cheesy form that both kids and adults will love. They’re easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or party snacks. Once you try these tasty little bites, they’re sure to become a regular feature in your kitchen.
Zucchini Tots are crispy, cheesy, veggie-packed bites made with shredded zucchini, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Baked until golden, they’re a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional tater tots—perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients
2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini), well-drained
1 large egg
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grate zucchini and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
In a large bowl, combine zucchini, egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix well.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and shape into small oval tots using your hands.
Place tots on prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crispiness, broil the tots for the last 1–2 minutes of baking.Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.Freeze after baking and reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.Serve with ranch, ketchup, or garlic aioli for dipping.
