Crispy Baked Zucchini Tots

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 tots (4–6 servings)
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy)
Category: Snack | Appetizer | Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian, Low-Carb Friendly

Introduction

If you’re looking for a healthy, low-guilt alternative to tater tots that still hits all the comfort-food notes, look no further than Crispy Baked Zucchini Tots. These little veggie-packed bites are cheesy, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside—without deep frying or heavy starches.

Perfect for adults, kids, picky eaters, or party guests, these tots are a clever way to sneak in veggies while keeping things irresistibly snackable. Serve them with ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo for dipping—and just watch how fast they disappear.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, planning game-day snacks, or looking for a way to use up summer zucchini, this recipe is a keeper.

Ingredients

Base:

• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 1 large zucchini)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion (or ½ teaspoon onion powder)

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (for a little kick)

• Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Prep & Cook Time Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

• Skill Level: ★☆☆☆☆ (Beginner)

How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Tots

Preheat and Prepare Pan

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.

Grate and Drain the Zucchini

1. Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.

2. Place the grated zucchini in a colander over the sink and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt.

3. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

4. Wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy tots!

Mix the Tots Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Drained zucchini

• Egg

• Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses

• Panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour)

• Onion, garlic powder, pepper, and optional herbs

Mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together when squeezed. If it’s too wet, add a touch more breadcrumbs.

Shape the Tots

• Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of mixture at a time and roll into a small cylinder or “tot” shape.

• Place onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining mixture, spacing evenly.

Bake Until Golden

• Bake for 10–12 minutes, then flip the tots.

• Bake another 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—but watch closely!

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Zucchini Tots are perfect for:

• Party appetizers

• Lunchbox snacks

• Side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches

• Paired with dips:

  • Ketchup

  • Spicy mayo

  • Ranch dressing

  • Garlic aioli

  • Marinara sauce

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked or cooked tots on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

 Reheating:

• Oven/Toaster oven: 375°F for 8–10 minutes

• Air fryer: 350°F for 4–6 minutes

• Microwave: Not recommended (makes them soft)

Nutrition Facts (Per 4–5 tots – Approximate)

Nutrition varies depending on cheese, breadcrumbs, and serving size.