Baked Zucchini Tots Recipe

If you’ve ever thought zucchini couldn’t be transformed into a crispy, delightful snack, wait until you try this Baked Zucchini Tots Recipe. These little bites are crunchy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor from Italian seasoning and onion powder. Perfect as a guilt-free appetizer, side, or even a fun finger food for picky eaters, this recipe takes humble zucchini and turns it into a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Baked Zucchini Tots Recipe is a breeze since it relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together. Each contributes distinct textures and tastes, from the fresh brightness of zucchini to the irresistible crust from panko breadcrumbs.

• 2 cups grated zucchini: Fresh zucchini provides moisture and a mild flavor, so draining it well is key to crispy tots.
• 1 large egg: Acts as the binder that holds all the ingredients together perfectly.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey richness and depth of flavor to each tot.
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Light and flaky, these breadcrumbs create that coveted crunchy exterior.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the tots a savory, herby pop.
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the umami without overpowering the delicate zucchini.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Ketchup: A classic dipping sauce, perfect for adding a sweet and tangy contrast.

How to Make Baked Zucchini Tots Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the zucchini

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Once that’s ready, grate about two medium zucchinis, then tightly wrap the grated zucchini in a kitchen towel and squeeze out every last bit of moisture. This step is crucial because it ensures your tots get crispy rather than soggy. Aim for about 1 cup of packed zucchini after squeezing.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients

Transfer the dried zucchini to a medium bowl. Add the egg, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to your taste. Now comes the fun part: combining everything until the mixture sticks together like it should. This mixture will feel like the perfect tot dough once it’s ready.

Step 3: Shape the tots

Using about one tablespoon of the mixture for each tot, shape them into small ovals resembling traditional tater tots. This hands-on step feels rewarding because you’re turning simple ingredients into tiny crispy gems. You should get around 16 tots from this batch.

Step 4: Bake until golden

Place your zucchini tots on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F, flipping them halfway through so they brown evenly on all sides. Keep an eye out for a golden brown exterior that’s deliciously crispy and ready to crunch!

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Once baked, serve these tots warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup or a tangy aioli. They’re best fresh but are so tasty you might want to double the batch!

How to Serve Baked Zucchini Tots Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan on top for a pop of color and an extra hit of flavor. A light drizzle of a spicy mayo or garlic aioli can also add a creamy zing that complements the herby zucchini beautifully.

Side Dishes

Baked zucchini tots are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with energetic salads, grilled chicken, or even as the crispy side to sloppy joes or burgers. Their texture makes them a delightful contrast to softer or saucier mains.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond a simple plate! Serve these tots in mini paper cones lined with parchment for a cute party snack or arrange them around a small bowl of dipping sauce as the centerpiece of a casual appetizer spread. Kids especially love dipping, so make it playful with a few colorful sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They tend to lose some crispiness but can easily be revived with a quick bake or air-fry before eating.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked zucchini tots by laying them out on a baking sheet and freezing until firm, then transferring them to a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat and bring back their crunch, pop the tots into a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy and lose that lovely texture we all crave.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but panko is recommended because it provides a lighter, crunchier texture that really helps these zucchini tots shine.

Is it necessary to squeeze the zucchini dry?

Absolutely! Removing excess moisture is the secret to having crisp, golden tots instead of mushy ones. Taking the time to squeeze out that liquid is well worth it.

Can I make these tots dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. The tots will still hold together and taste delicious.

How do I make these tots kid-friendly?

This recipe is already a hit with kids, but you can make it even more appealing by serving with fun dips like ranch dressing or mild salsa. The tots’ crispy texture and cheesy flavor make them a favorite finger food.

Can I add other vegetables to these tots?

Definitely! Finely grated carrots or sweet potatoes mix nicely with zucchini and add color and sweetness. Just keep the same ratio of moisture extraction and binders for the best results.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Baked Zucchini Tots Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a fun, flavorful, and healthy snack or side to their kitchen repertoire. They’re approachable, easy to make, and feel like a special treat without any fuss. Once you taste that crispy outside with cheesy, herby inside, you’ll be hooked just like I am. So grab some zucchinis and start baking—your new favorite snack awaits!

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