My youngest refused zucchini for years. Then I made a batch of cheesy zucchini tots on a rainy Tuesday. Suddenly, the “green stuff” became her favorite snack.
Now these cheesy zucchini tots disappear before they even cool. I love that they sneak in veggies while tasting like a treat. If you need a fun way to serve greens, these cheesy zucchini tots are your answer.
They are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. Best of all, these cheesy zucchini tots come together with simple pantry staples. Let me show you how easy it is to make cheesy zucchini tots at home.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE FOR CHEESY ZUCCHINI TOTS
First, these cheesy zucchini tots require just a handful of ingredients. Second, they bake up golden and crispy without deep frying. Third, kids and adults alike devour these cheesy zucchini tots.
Plus, you can make a big batch and freeze them. Honestly, these cheesy zucchini tots make weeknight dinners so much easier. They also work as a smart after-school snack. In short, cheesy zucchini tots are a win for busy families.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Zucchini (grated) | 2 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
You can easily tweak these cheesy zucchini tots. Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Parmesan. Use panko for extra crunch in your cheesy zucchini tots.
Add a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour in these cheesy zucchini tots. Try adding finely chopped onion for more flavor. These cheesy zucchini tots stay delicious with any small change.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
step 1: prep the zucchini
Grate the zucchini. Then squeeze out excess water with a clean towel. This step keeps your cheesy zucchini tots from getting soggy.
step 2: mix the ingredients
In a bowl, combine zucchini, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until the cheesy zucchini tots mixture holds together.
step 3: shape and bake
Preheat oven to 400°F. Shape the mixture into small tot shapes. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden. Your cheesy zucchini tots are ready!
PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Always squeeze the zucchini well. Otherwise, your cheesy zucchini tots turn mushy. Use a cookie scoop for even sizes.
Flip the cheesy zucchini tots halfway through baking. Spray the tops lightly with oil for extra crispness. Finally, let the cheesy zucchini tots cool for 5 minutes before serving.
STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS
Store leftover cheesy zucchini tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. You can also freeze these cheesy zucchini tots for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen cheesy zucchini tots directly in the oven.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE
Serve cheesy zucchini tots with marinara sauce or ranch dip. They pair well with grilled chicken or burgers. Add a fresh salad for a light meal. These cheesy zucchini tots also shine on a party platter.
FAQS
can i make cheesy zucchini tots ahead of time?
Yes. Shape the cheesy zucchini tots and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.
why are my cheesy zucchini tots soggy?
You likely skipped squeezing the zucchini. Remove as much water as possible for crispy cheesy zucchini tots.
can i fry cheesy zucchini tots instead?
Yes, but baking keeps these cheesy zucchini tots lighter and healthier.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Fat | 7g |
cheesy zucchini tots
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 16-20 tots
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy zucchini tots that are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. A fun way to sneak veggies into snacks and meals, made with simple pantry staples and baked without deep frying.
Ingredients
- Zucchini (grated) – 2 cups
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
- Breadcrumbs – ½ cup
- Egg – 1 large
- Garlic powder – ½ tsp
- Salt – ¼ tsp
Instructions
1. step 1: prep the zucchini
2. Grate the zucchini. Then squeeze out excess water with a clean towel. This step keeps your cheesy zucchini tots from getting soggy.
3. step 2: mix the ingredients
4. In a bowl, combine zucchini, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until the cheesy zucchini tots mixture holds together.
5. step 3: shape and bake
6. Preheat oven to 400°F. Shape the mixture into small tot shapes. Place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden. Your cheesy zucchini tots are ready!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: cheesy zucchini tots, zucchini tots, baked zucchini tots, kid-friendly veggie snack, crispy zucchini tots, easy zucchini recipe