Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer)

Short Description
Cheesy Zucchini Tots are a healthier, veggie-packed alternative to traditional tater tots, with a crispy exterior and a cheesy, tender inside. These tots are made with shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, making them a perfect snack or side dish. Whether baked in the oven or air fried for extra crispiness, they are sure to satisfy your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Zucchini Tots are not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies! The zucchini is packed with flavor, cheese, and seasonings, creating a crispy, cheesy bite that’s irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a healthy snack, these tots are quick, easy, and perfect for the whole family. Plus, you can make them in either the oven or the air fryer, depending on what you prefer.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces shredded zucchini (about 3 packed cups or 2 medium zucchinis) – measure before squeezing out
• 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 ounces)
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For Oven:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425℉. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or grease it with oil spray.
2. Prepare the zucchini: Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy tots.
3. Make the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, cheddar cheese, egg, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until everything is combined.
4. Form the tots: Using a tablespoon, scoop the zucchini mixture and form it into small tot shapes. If the mixture isn’t holding together, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
5. Bake the tots: Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Let the tots cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dip, or even a spicy mayo.

For Air Fryer:

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 380℉ and grease the basket or tray with oil spray.
2. Form the tots: Shape the zucchini mixture into tots as you would for the oven method.
3. Air fry the tots: Place the tots on the air fryer tray, leaving a little space between each one. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Serve: Allow the tots to cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dip.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-28 minutes (oven) / 15-18 minutes (air fryer)
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Zucchini Tots: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Zucchini Tots: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the mixture for an aromatic twist.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a new flavor.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite sauces like spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooked and cooled zucchini tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. For the oven, heat at 375℉ for 5-7 minutes. For the air fryer, reheat at 380℉ for 3-4 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked and cooled zucchini tots in a single layer until frozen solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well.

2. How can I make these tots crispier?

For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tots with oil before baking or air frying. You can also increase the cooking time slightly, but be careful not to overcook.

3. Can I make the zucchini tots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tots in advance and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking or air frying.

4. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs will give the tots a lighter, crunchier texture.

5. How do I avoid soggy tots?

Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before mixing. You can also add extra breadcrumbs if the mixture is too wet.

6. Can I make these tots without cheese?

Yes, you can make these tots without cheese, but they might be less flavorful. Consider adding extra seasoning or a bit of nutritional yeast for flavor.

7. Can I bake these tots at a lower temperature?

Yes, you can bake them at a lower temperature, but it will take longer. If you bake at 350℉, it will take about 35-40 minutes to reach a golden brown color.

8. Can I freeze the uncooked tots?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked tots in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake or air fry them directly from frozen.

9. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can use other vegetables such as sweet potato or carrots, but you may need to adjust the cooking time or squeeze out excess moisture differently.

10. How can I make these tots vegan?

To make these tots vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg or a chia egg, and use a plant-based cheese alternative for the cheddar and Parmesan.

Conclusion

Cheesy Zucchini Tots are a flavorful, healthier alternative to regular tater tots, with a crispy, cheesy exterior and a soft, veggie-filled center. Whether you bake them in the oven or cook them in the air fryer, these tots are a perfect side dish, snack, or appetizer. Easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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