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)

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Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and positively packed with flavor, Zucchini Tots are those irresistible little bites that make veggies exciting for everyone at the table. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family snack, a potluck appetizer, or a sneaky way to get kids to relish their greens, this recipe manages to be both delightfully simple and totally crave-worthy. Fresh zucchini mingles with sharp cheddar, aromatic onion, and the perfect crunch of seasoned breadcrumbs, transforming humble produce into mini morsels of joy you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients to whip up these Zucchini Tots, each carefully chosen to deliver the right flavor, texture, and color. Don’t be tempted to skip anything—every part plays a crucial role in making these tots shine!

Grated zucchini (1 packed cup, squeezed dry): The star! Make sure to squeeze out all extra moisture for crispy, not soggy, tots.
Large egg: Binds everything together and helps the tots hold their shape while baking.
Finely minced onion (¼ medium): Adds a gentle savory punch and a touch of sweetness.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (¼ cup): Brings rich flavor and a gooey texture you’ll love.
Seasoned breadcrumbs (⅓ cup): Crisp up the edges and keep things light inside.
Kosher salt (¼ tsp): Enhances every bite and balances the flavors.
Black pepper, to taste: Provides a subtle pop of heat—add as much or as little as you like.
Cooking spray: Ensures your mini muffin tin releases each tot without sticking.

How to Make Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Give your mini muffin tin a thorough coating with cooking spray—don’t be shy here! This is the secret to getting those golden, crisp edges that make Zucchini Tots such a treat.

Step 2: Squeeze Zucchini Dry

Lay your grated zucchini out on a clean kitchen towel and twist it up, squeezing as hard as you can. You’ll be amazed at the amount of water that comes out! This step is non-negotiable: super dry zucchini means your tots turn out crispy and won’t fall apart.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a medium bowl, combine your squeezed zucchini, egg, finely minced onion, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir until the mixture comes together and looks a little bit like a thick batter—no loose flour or wet spots.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin

Evenly divide the zucchini mixture among the mini muffin cups, filling each one and pressing down firmly with a spoon or your fingers. Packing them in tightly helps the Zucchini Tots keep their shape while baking so they’ll pop out perfectly when done.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Slide the muffin tin into your preheated oven. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown and crisp. If you like them extra crunchy, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes—but keep a close eye so they don’t burn!

Step 6: Cool Slightly & Remove

Let the Zucchini Tots cool for about 5 minutes in the tin. Then, gently run a knife or thin spatula along the edges to help release them. If you don’t have a mini muffin tin, just bake spoonfuls on a lined baking sheet for the same irresistible result.

How to Serve Zucchini Tots

Garnishes

Zucchini Tots are even more delightful when you add a pop of freshness or color just before serving. A sprinkle of finely chopped chives, a dusting of grated parmesan, or a few flakes of sea salt can take them from homey to show-stopping with almost no effort at all.

Side Dishes

Pair your Zucchini Tots with a crisp garden salad, buttery corn on the cob, or sweet potato fries for a meal that’s as balanced as it is satisfying. They also make a fabulous accompaniment to grilled chicken, burgers, or even a simple bowl of tomato soup for dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking Zucchini Tots on a platter with toothpicks for easy party bites, or serve them in parchment cones as a playful side at your next barbecue. For family snacks, offer a variety of flavorful dips—think ranch, spiced ketchup, or zesty yogurt sauce—and let everyone mix and match their favorites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Zucchini Tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They hold their texture surprisingly well, so you can enjoy them as an easy snack or side dish straight from the fridge!

Freezing

Zucchini Tots freeze beautifully—perfect for make-ahead meal planning! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months without losing their delicious crunch.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Zucchini Tots in the oven or an air fryer at 375°F until warmed through and crisp (usually 6 to 8 minutes). Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them a bit soft—though they’ll still taste great!

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works well as a substitute for zucchini, although it has a slightly milder flavor. Just remember to squeeze out as much water as possible for crisp tots.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for gluten-free tots?

You can swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or use finely crushed rice cakes or oat flour as a binder. You may need to adjust the amount slightly if your alternative soaks up more or less moisture.

Can I make Zucchini Tots in advance?

Definitely! You can bake a batch ahead of time and either refrigerate or freeze them. They reheat beautifully and retain their texture, so they’re ideal for meal prep or easy entertaining.

Do I have to peel the zucchini?

No need to peel! The skin adds great color and a boost of nutrients. Just wash and dry your zucchini before grating, and you’re good to go.

Can I add other vegetables or cheese?

Absolutely—Zucchini Tots are very forgiving and fun to customize! Try adding grated carrot, chopped spinach, or experimenting with different cheeses for your own flavor twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to make vegetables downright irresistible, these Zucchini Tots might just become your new go-to. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear—there’s a good chance you’ll be asked to make a double batch next time!

Zucchini Tots Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 19 reviews

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

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Description

These Zucchini Tots are a delightful snack or side dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the savory goodness of cheese and breadcrumbs. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are a perfect way to enjoy zucchini in a fun and delicious form.

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). Spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin generously.
Squeeze zucchini: Squeeze zucchini dry using a clean towel—get every drop!
Mix ingredients: Mix everything in a medium bowl: zucchini, egg, onion, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper.
Fill muffin cups: Fill muffin cups with the mixture, pressing down firmly.
Bake: Bake for 16–18 mins until golden and crisp at the edges.
Cool and serve: Cool for 5 mins before gently removing with a knife or spatula.