Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Baked or Air Fryer) Recipe
Delicious and crispy Cheesy Zucchini Tots that can be baked or air fried to golden perfection. Made with shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, and a blend of flavorful seasonings, these tots are a healthy, kid-friendly snack or side dish perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (oven) or 15 minutes (air fryer)
- Total Time: 40 minutes (oven) or 30 minutes (air fryer)
- Yield: About 20 to 24 tots
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables & Cheese
- 12 ounces shredded zucchini, about 3 packed cups or 2 medium zucchinis (measured before squeezing out)
- 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese, about 2 ounces
- 2 Tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Binding & Coating
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425℉ (218℃). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or grease it generously with oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Drain Zucchini: Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to ensure the tots hold together and crisp up well.
- Mix Ingredients: Transfer the drained zucchini to a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, egg, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Tots: Using a tablespoon measure, scoop the zucchini mixture and shape each portion into small tot shapes with your hands. If the mixture is too wet and doesn’t hold its shape, incorporate a bit more breadcrumbs until the mixture is firm enough.
- Bake the Tots: Arrange the zucchini tots on the prepared baking sheet with some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes or until the tots are very golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy the tots warm with ketchup, ranch dip, or your favorite dipping sauce. Once cooled, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat best in an oven or air fryer for optimal crispness.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze cooked and cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage.
- Air Frying Option: Preheat your air fryer to 380℉ (193℃) and lightly grease the insert or tray with oil spray. Place the zucchini tots in a single layer without overcrowding and air fry for 15 to 18 minutes until golden and crisp. Cook in batches if necessary. Store and freeze as described above.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent soggy tots.
- Panko breadcrumbs help create a light, crispy texture; adjust quantity if mixture is too wet.
- These tots are best served fresh and warm but can be reheated in oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Freezing cooked tots in a single layer prevents them from sticking together.
- Customize your seasoning or cheese type to suit your taste preferences.
