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!
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
Instructions
- For Oven:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425℉. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or grease it with oil spray. - 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 380℉ and grease the basket or tray with oil spray. - Form the tots: Shape the zucchini mixture into tots as you would for the oven method.
- 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.
- Serve: Allow the tots to cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dip.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-28 minutes (oven) / 15-18 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
