The first time I pulled a batch of Zucchini Tots from the oven, the crispy edges and golden hue made my kitchen feel like a happy little paradise. If you're searching for a nutritious snack that satisfies both cravings and health goals, you’ve just hit the jackpot! These Zucchini Tots not only come together in a snap but also make a delightful crowd-pleaser for family movie nights or entertaining friends. With their cheesy goodness and a subtle crunch, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies—and trust me, even the pickiest eaters won’t resist. Ready to dive into this exciting recipe that transforms humble zucchini into a delectable treat? Let’s get cooking!
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Why Are Zucchini Tots So Amazing?
Deliciously Crunchy: The golden, crispy edges create a mouthwatering texture that makes each bite irresistible.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with zucchini, these tots are a nutritious option for those looking to elevate their snacking game without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Preparation: Whipping up a batch takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Delight: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish—these Zucchini Tots are perfect for any occasion.
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will be coming back for seconds! Try pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun twist.
For those wanting to do some meal prepping, these tots can easily be made ahead and frozen—making them a time-saver for busy weeks!
Zucchini Tots Ingredients
For the Batter
• Grated zucchini – Packed with moisture and nutrients, this is the star ingredient that brings freshness to your Zucchini Tots.
• Large egg – This binds the ingredients together, ensuring your tots hold their shape when baking.
• Finely minced onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile of the tots.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Provides a deliciously rich and gooey texture that complements the zucchini beautifully.
• Seasoned breadcrumbs – These add the essential crunch and are a great way to introduce flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Kosher salt – Elevates all the flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned.
• Black pepper – A touch of warmth that rounds out the flavors; feel free to adjust according to your taste!
• Cooking spray – Ensures that the tots bake evenly and come out of the muffin tin smoothly, maintaining their delightful shape.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Zucchini Tots
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 24-cup mini muffin tin and coat it generously with cooking spray. This step ensures that your Zucchini Tots come out perfectly crisp and easy to remove without losing their shape.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Take your grated zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out any excess moisture until the zucchini is dry, which will help the tots achieve a wonderful crispy texture. You should be left with a compact mound of zucchini that’s ready to mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the drained zucchini, large egg, finely minced onion, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Use a sturdy fork or spatula to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be cohesive with the cheese evenly distributed throughout.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin
Take spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture and fill each muffin cup in the prepared tin, pressing down firmly to pack the mixture in. Make sure to fill them to the top; this helps them maintain a nice dome shape while baking. The goal is to have the mixture tightly packed to hold together when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake the Zucchini Tots for 16 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you're looking for a delightful golden color and crispy edges. The aroma will make it hard to resist peeking in on them!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the Zucchini Tots to cool for about 5 minutes. Gently run a knife or spatula around the edges of each tot to help release them. Then, enjoy these irresistible bites warm, perhaps with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavorful treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Zucchini Tots are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the zucchini mixture up to 24 hours in advance, simply combine the grated zucchini, egg, onion, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl, and store it tightly covered in the fridge to keep it fresh. To maintain the quality and prevent moisture buildup, make sure to squeeze out excess liquid from the zucchini before mixing. When you're ready to bake, just fill the muffin cups with the prepped mixture and pop them in the oven for a quick cook. You’ll enjoy the same delightful taste and crispy texture, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Zucchini Tots
Imagine a vibrant kitchen filled with laughter, delightful aromas, and the sound of munching on crispy goodness—let’s elevate your Zucchini Tots into a full-fledged meal experience!
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Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool, tangy companion that enhances every bite while adding a satisfying creaminess that balances the crunch.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness and hearty texture of roasted sweet potatoes make a perfect contrast to the savory, cheesy zesty flavor of the tots.
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with a light vinaigrette brings brightness and crunch that complements the warmth of your Zucchini Tots.
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Garlic-Herb Quinoa: This nutrient-packed, fluffy grain dish adds a delightful chewiness while its aromatic herbs elevate the zestiness of the tots.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on rustic bread offers a rich, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy Zucchini Tots and is visually appealing to boot.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshingly citrusy drink that cuts through the richness of the tots while adding a fun fizz to your snack time!
For an extra treat, consider ending the meal with a light dessert, like a fruit sorbet—its cold, fruity flavor will perfectly cleanse the palate after your veggie-packed feast.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Tots
Moisture Management: Squeeze thoroughly: Ensure your grated zucchini is as dry as possible to prevent sogginess in your Zucchini Tots.
Ingredient Variety: Add herbs: Spice things up by adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance flavor.
Baking Watch: Check for color: Keep a close eye on the baking process, as the perfect golden hue indicates deliciously crispy edges.
Pack it Tight: Press firmly: When filling the muffin tin, pack the mixture tightly to help your tots hold their shape while baking.
Serving Ideas: Pair with dips: Try serving these Zucchini Tots with zesty sauces like ranch or a tangy yogurt dip to elevate your snack time!
Storage Tips for Zucchini Tots
Fridge: Store leftover Zucchini Tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fully baked Zucchini Tots. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat straight from frozen on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot and crispy.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it tightly covered in the fridge. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed!
Zucchini Tots Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and give these Zucchini Tots a personal twist with a few simple ingredients!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative to make these tots suitable for lactose intolerance.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of seasoned ones so everyone can enjoy these tasty bites without worry.
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Italian Flavor: Add Italian seasoning like oregano and basil for an enticing Mediterranean flair that will transport your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to inject a zesty heat that gives your tots an exhilarating boost.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in finely chopped carrots or bell peppers into the mix. This not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional profile.
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Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or cilantro can be added to bring a fresh and vibrant flavor that elevates your zucchini experience.
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Sweet Potato: Replace half the zucchini with grated sweet potato for a sweetness contrast that pairs beautifully with cheddar cheese.
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Savory Bacon: Crumble cooked bacon into the mixture to add a delicious smoky flavor that makes each bite irresistible.
Enjoy these variations as you whip up your own batch of Zucchini Tots! Whether you're looking for a touch of spice or a new hearty flavor, they're sure to be a hit! Don't forget, you can also pair them with zesty sauces for dipping—check out my recipe for Tangy Yogurt Dip for an extra kick. Want to explore more delicious ideas? Try my Fresh Herb Dipping Sauce to make a flavorful spread for your tots!
Zucchini Tots Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right zucchini for my Zucchini Tots?
Absolutely! Look for zucchinis that are firm and shiny, avoiding any with dark spots or soft spots. Smaller zucchinis tend to be sweeter and contain less moisture. Aim for a medium-sized zucchini as it will yield approximately the right amount when grated.
How should I store leftover Zucchini Tots?
Very simple! Place your leftover Zucchini Tots in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their freshness and delightful texture. Make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them up to prevent condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze Zucchini Tots?
Yes, you can! To freeze Zucchini Tots, first let them cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to label it. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember, you don't need to thaw them before reheating!
What if my Zucchini Tots are too soggy after baking?
If you find your Zucchini Tots a bit soggy, it’s usually due to excess moisture in the zucchini. To prevent this, be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing. If they do turn out soggy, you can try putting them back in the oven at a lower temperature for a few extra minutes to help them crisp up.
Are Zucchini Tots suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! Zucchini Tots are a great vegetarian option, and if you need to adjust for gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Just remember to check the cheese for any allergens if you’re serving those with food sensitivities or restrictions.
Crispy Zucchini Tots to Transform Family Snack Time
Equipment
- mini muffin tin
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 2 cups grated zucchini squeezed dry
- 1 large egg binds the mixture
- ¼ cup finely minced onion adds sweetness
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese rich texture
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs for crunch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper to taste
- as needed cooking spray for coating the muffin tin
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Zucchini Tots
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and coat a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
- In a bowl, mix drained zucchini, egg, minced onion, cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Fill each muffin cup with the zucchini mixture, pressing down firmly.
- Bake in the oven for 16 to 18 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Cool for 5 minutes and gently run a knife around the edges to release the tots.
