Name: Zucchini Tots Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 packed cup grated zucchini (squeezed dry); 1 large egg; ¼ medium onion, finely minced; ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ⅓ cup seasoned breadcrumbs; ¼ tsp kosher salt; Black pepper, to taste; Cooking spray (for pan)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that marries comfort food coziness with a healthy twist, let me introduce you to Zucchini Tots. These little golden nuggets are crispy at the edges, tender inside, and bubbling with cheesy goodness—all while sneaking a healthy dose of veggies into your day. Perfect as a playful side, a party appetizer, or a lunchbox treat, they never last long in my kitchen! Every bite is a delicious reminder that vegetables can be just as exciting as your favorite indulgence. Trust me—you’ll want to make these again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, Zucchini Tots come together in a flash. Each item on this short list packs a punch—whether it’s for crispness, flavor, or that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters:

Zucchini: The star of the show, lending moisture, subtle earthiness, and color; be sure to squeeze it dry for the crispiest tots!
Large egg: Acts as the binder so your tots hold their shape beautifully.
Finely minced onion: Brings depth, gentle sweetness, and a bit of bite.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds bubbly richness and turns irresistibly gooey as the tots bake.
Seasoned breadcrumbs: Create that toasty golden crust and soak up excess moisture.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
Black pepper: For a bit of warmth and zing—adjust to taste.
Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and lets the tots release easily from the pan.

How to Make Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for action. Grab a 24-cup mini muffin tin—spray each cup generously with cooking spray. This not only keeps your Zucchini Tots from sticking, but gives them those perfect crisp edges you crave!

Step 2: Squeeze the Zucchini Dry

This is the secret to Zucchini Tots that are crisp instead of soggy! Place your grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, then twist and squeeze with all your might. Removing as much water as possible ensures your tots are golden, not watery.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a medium bowl, add your zucchini, egg, minced onion, shredded cheddar, seasoned breadcrumbs, salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined—the mixture should be moist, but easy to press together.

Step 4: Shape and Fill

Spoon the mixture into each mini muffin cup, filling them to the top and pressing down firmly. This helps the tots keep their shape and encourages those caramelized, crisped-up bottoms that everyone loves.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes. You’re looking for beautifully golden tops and edges; a little bubbling cheese is a sure sign you’re on the right track!

Step 6: Cool and Unmold

Let your Zucchini Tots cool for about 5 minutes in the pan—this helps them set and makes removal a breeze. Use a small knife or spatula to gently release each tot. Now all that’s left is to dig in!

How to Serve Zucchini Tots

Garnishes

Turn up the flavor and visual appeal by finishing your Zucchini Tots with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dusting of Parmesan, or a little extra cracked black pepper. These toppers add both color and an extra dimension of taste to every bite.

Side Dishes

Zucchini Tots are surprisingly versatile—serve them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a big green salad for a balanced meal. They also make a fantastic addition to brunch spreads, pairing well with eggs or smoked salmon.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try threading a few Zucchini Tots onto short skewers, or pile them high in a rustic basket lined with parchment. For dipping, ramekins of sriracha mayo, marinara, or ranch make perfect partners. Kids love them dunked and served with their favorite sauces!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If by some miracle you have extras, store your cooled Zucchini Tots in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—perfect for lunchboxes or quick snacks.

Freezing

Want to have Zucchini Tots on hand anytime? Once baked and cooled, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Zucchini Tots in a 375°F (190°C) oven or toaster oven for 8-10 minutes. This brings back their crispy edges—avoid the microwave if you don’t want them to get soft.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works beautifully and offers a slightly different flavor, but the texture and cooking method are the same. It’s a great way to use what’s in season or already in your fridge.

What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?

No worries—just form the mixture into small puck-shaped tots by hand and arrange them on a lined baking sheet. They might spread a bit more but will still turn out delicious.

Are Zucchini Tots gluten free?

With regular breadcrumbs, they aren’t gluten free—but you can easily swap in gluten free seasoned breadcrumbs and enjoy the same great taste and crunch!

Can I add other veggies or herbs to the mix?

Definitely! Feel free to finely grate carrots, add chopped spinach, or throw in fresh herbs like dill or basil. Just be sure to squeeze any extra moisture out so the tots crisp up nicely.

How do I get my kids to try these?

Kids love Zucchini Tots because they look like classic tater tots and taste cheesy and familiar. Serve them with fun dipping sauces or let little hands help press the mixture into the pan—getting kids involved usually does the trick!

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Zucchini Tots, you’ll understand why they’re always a hit at my table. They’re everything you want in a snack—crunchy, cheesy, and secretly packed with veggies. I can’t wait for you to bake up a batch and see how quickly they disappear. Happy cooking!

Zucchini Tots Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 14 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 33 minutes
Yield: 24 zucchini tots 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Zucchini Tots are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tater tots. Packed with grated zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful seasonings, these tots are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 packed cup grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
1 large egg
¼ medium onion, finely minced
¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
⅓ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
¼ tsp kosher salt
Black pepper, to taste
Cooking spray (for pan)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin generously with cooking spray.
Squeeze Zucchini: Squeeze zucchini dry using a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine zucchini, egg, onion, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
Fill Muffin Cups: Fill muffin cups with the zucchini mixture, pressing down firmly.
Bake: Bake for 16–18 minutes until golden and crisp at the edges.
Cool and Serve: Allow the tots to cool for 5 minutes before gently removing them from the tin with a knife or spatula.