Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

A delicious snack that everyone will enjoy is the Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe. These tots are packed with veggies and deliver a delightful cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with your favorite dips. They’re quick to make, easy to eat, and a great way to sneak in some greens for kids and adults alike. Perfect for parties, game day snacks, or as a fun side dish during dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and baking gives you an irresistibly crunchy exterior.
• Cheesy Goodness: Sharp cheddar cheese adds rich flavor that makes these tots a hit with cheese lovers.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a fun snack any time of day.
• Easy Preparation: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Healthy Alternative: Packed with zucchini, these tots provide fiber and vitamins while keeping calories in check.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your necessary tools. Having everything ready will make preparing your Cheesy Zucchini Tots smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Colander
• Baking sheet
• Nonstick spray or oil
• Grater
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Colander: Helps effectively drain excess moisture from grated zucchini for crispier tots.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even cooking and browning of your tots.

Ingredients

A veggie-packed snack you’ll love! These Cheesy Zucchini Tots have a crispy texture and cheesy flavor that pairs with any dip. Quick, easy, and deliciously addictive for kids and adults!

For the Tots

• 3 medium zucchini (or 2 zucchini and 1 yellow squash), grated
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (finely grated)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 3/4 tsp kosher sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp dried parsley
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• Avocado oil (or grapeseed oil or PAM)

How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Generously spray or oil a standard-size cookie sheet with nonstick spray (PAM works well, but avocado or grapeseed oil is preferred).

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Place the grated zucchini in a colander over the sink. Press down firmly to remove as much water as possible. This process may take about five minutes but is crucial for achieving crispy tots.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the drained zucchini into a large mixing bowl. Add in the panko breadcrumbs, sharp cheddar cheese, eggs, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, dried parsley, and paprika. Using a large spatula, mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Tots

Using a tablespoon for uniform measurement, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into small tots. Place each tot onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with oil for extra crispiness.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and crispy—this should take about 18-22 minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite dip like ketchup, marinara sauce, or ranch dressing for an extra tasty treat!

How to Serve Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

Cheesy Zucchini Tots are a delightful snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your snack experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ketchup: A classic choice that adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: Offers a rich, herby taste that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and zesty, ranch makes for a perfect dip for these tots.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve the tots on a bed of mixed greens for added crunch and nutrition.
• Caesar Salad: Add them to a Caesar salad for a delicious twist on a classic dish.

As an Appetizer

• Party Platter: Arrange the tots on a platter with various dips for an appealing party starter.
• Game Day Snack: Perfect for game day, serve them alongside other finger foods like veggie sticks or chips.

How to Perfect Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

Creating the perfect Cheesy Zucchini Tots is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out crispy and delicious every time.

• Drain Excess Moisture: Make sure to press the grated zucchini well to remove any excess water. This helps achieve a crispier texture.
• Use Panko Bread Crumbs: Opt for panko over regular bread crumbs; it gives the tots a lighter and crunchier bite.
• Even Sizing: Use a tablespoon or small scoop to ensure uniformity in size so they cook evenly.
• Bake Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on them while baking. You want them golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 18-22 minutes.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the tots right out of the oven while they’re hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

Pairing Cheesy Zucchini Tots with complementary side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some great ideas!

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
2. Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the tots.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: A colorful and healthy side filled with rice or quinoa complementing the zucchini flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory cheesy tots.
5. Crispy Veggie Chips: Light and crunchy, these chips make a great alternative for dipping alongside the tots.
6. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious and filling, this salad adds protein and fiber to your meal while being light enough not to overshadow the main attraction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Zucchini Tots, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not draining the zucchini properly: If you skip pressing out the water from the grated zucchini, your tots may turn out soggy instead of crispy. Take a few minutes to squeeze out excess moisture.

• Using too much cheese: While cheese adds flavor, using too much can make the mixture greasy. Stick to the recipe’s suggested amount for optimal texture and taste.

• Skipping the oil spray: Failing to spray or oil your baking sheet can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. A light layer of oil helps achieve that desired crispiness.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many tots close together can result in steaming instead of baking. Space them evenly on the tray for even cooking.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Every zucchini has a different moisture content and flavor. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust salt or spices as needed for best results.

• Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at a lower temperature may prevent your tots from becoming golden and crispy. Be sure to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) as instructed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow them to cool completely before storing.

Freezing Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may lose some crispiness.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe:

Can I use other vegetables in this Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with carrots or sweet potatoes mixed with zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.

How do I ensure my Cheesy Zucchini Tots are crispy?

Make sure to drain excess moisture from the zucchini and don’t overcrowd your baking sheet during cooking.

Can I make these Cheesy Zucchini Tots ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What dips pair well with Cheesy Zucchini Tots?

These tots go great with ketchup, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even guacamole!

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Zucchini Tots are not only delicious but also versatile—perfect as a snack or appetizer! Feel free to customize them by adding herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cheesy Zucchini Tots

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 tots (6 servings) 1x

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible taste of Cheesy Zucchini Tots, a delightful snack that appeals to all ages! These golden-brown bites are crafted from fresh zucchini and a blend of savory seasonings, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Perfect for any occasion—be it game day, parties, or just a fun family dinner—these tots are an excellent way to sneak some nutritious veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Serve them alongside your favorite dips such as ketchup, marinara sauce, or ranch dressing for an extra layer of enjoyment. With their cheesy goodness and crispy exterior, these tots are bound to become a household favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 medium zucchini (or 2 zucchini and 1 yellow squash), grated
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (finely grated)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 3/4 tsp kosher sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp dried parsley
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• Avocado oil (or grapeseed oil)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with nonstick spray or lightly oiling.
2. Grate the zucchini and place in a colander over the sink; press out excess moisture.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained zucchini with panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, eggs, cornstarch, and seasonings. Mix until well combined.
4. Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small tots on the baking sheet. Lightly spray tops with oil.
5. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Snack/Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 tots (approximately 90g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 60mg