If you’re craving a delightful snack that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with wholesome goodness, this Zucchini Tots Recipe is a total game-changer. These little bites make a fantastic low-carb alternative to classic tater tots, bringing cheesy, savory magic to your plate with every bite. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser that you and your loved ones will find impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Zucchini Tots Recipe lies in its simplicity; every ingredient plays a starring role in texture and flavor. From the moisture-packed zucchini to the crunch of panko breadcrumbs, each component is essential for creating tots that bake up crispy and cheesy without falling apart.
- 2 cups grated zucchini: Fresh zucchini lends moisture and a subtle garden-fresh flavor to the tots.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together while baking.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, melty cheesiness that makes these tots irresistible.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides the perfect crunchy texture and structural support.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings depth and warmth to every bite.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle savory punch without overwhelming the delicate zucchini flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Ketchup for serving: Classic and tangy, perfect for dipping and elevating your zucchini tots.
How to Make Zucchini Tots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by grating your zucchinis and then squeezing out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial because it prevents sogginess, ensuring your tots will crisp up beautifully in the oven. You’re aiming for about 1 cup of packed zucchini after draining.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Transfer your dried zucchini to a mixing bowl and add the egg, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the mixture comes together and is sticky enough to hold its shape—a true sign your tots will bake up perfectly.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
Grab about a tablespoon of the mixture and mold it into a small, oval shape reminiscent of classic tater tots. This recipe should make roughly 16 tots, which will bake evenly and provide great portion control for snack time or appetizers.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange your zucchini tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and slide them into the preheated 400°F oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This flipping step ensures both sides get that golden, crispy crunch everyone loves.
How to Serve Zucchini Tots Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra shredded cheddar just before serving elevate these tots to something special. A lemon wedge on the side can add a bright, tangy contrast that complements the cheese and herbs beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because zucchini tots are a versatile bite, they pair wonderfully with fresh salads, creamy dips, or even alongside your favorite protein like grilled chicken or salmon. Serve with a cool cucumber and tomato salad for a fresh balance or with spicy aioli for a bold dip option.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange zucchini tots on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces—think garlic ranch, chipotle mayo, and classic ketchup—to turn snack time into an interactive and colorful experience. You can also serve them atop leafy greens or in mini sandwich buns for a playful finger food idea at your next party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, zucchini tots store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure they’ve cooled completely before storing to keep the texture intact.
Freezing
Zucchini tots freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. After forming your tots, flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months, ready for a quick, satisfying snack anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your zucchini tots in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that lovely crunch; the oven is your best friend here!
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Absolutely! While panko lends a lighter, crunchier texture, regular breadcrumbs work just fine and will still help bind the tots effectively.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The cheesy, mild flavors and fun tot shape make this recipe a kid favorite. It’s a sneaky way to get more veggies into their diet!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the recipe safe and delicious.
What dipping sauces pair best with zucchini tots?
Ketchup is a classic, but don’t hesitate to try ranch, spicy mayo, honey mustard, or even tzatziki for a fresh twist.
Can these be cooked in an air fryer?
They sure can! Cook the tots at 400°F for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they crisp evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini Tots Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug—comforting, crispy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you want a healthy snack, a fun appetizer, or something new to add to your weeknight dinner rotation, these tots deliver joy on every plate. Give it a go, and watch your family and friends fall in love with this little gem of a recipe!
Print
Zucchini Tots Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 16 zucchini tots)
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Zucchini Tots are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional potato tater tots. These cheesy, baked bites are kid-friendly and perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack. Made with grated zucchini, cheddar cheese, and a blend of seasonings, they offer a crispy golden exterior with a tender, flavorful inside.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ketchup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out all the excess moisture. Discard the liquid. You should have about 1 cup of compacted zucchini after squeezing.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the dried zucchini to a medium mixing bowl. Add one large egg, shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together.
- Shape the Tots: Scoop about one tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small ovals resembling classic tater tots. Continue until all the mixture is formed, yielding approximately 16 zucchini tots.
- Bake: Arrange the zucchini tots evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning. The tots should be golden and slightly crispy when done.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the zucchini tots warm with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to avoid soggy tots.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed for dietary preferences.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture.
- These tots can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
- Serve with a variety of dips such as ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara sauce for different flavor options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
