Zucchini Tater Tots have become my go-to weeknight win, especially when I want something fun and a little bit healthier. I first tried making these when my kids were obsessed with the store-bought kind, and I wanted to sneak in some extra veggies without them noticing. The smell of the garlic and onion powder baking in the oven, promising that crispy exterior, always makes my kitchen feel so cozy. These homemade zucchini tots are so simple, truly an easy zucchini tater tot recipe that even beginners can master. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Tater Tot Recipe
- Incredible Taste: They’re perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, a delightful twist on a classic.
- Quick Prep: You can whip these up in just about 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Choice: Enjoy these healthy zucchini tater tots as a guilt-free alternative to traditional fried versions.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will gobble up these fun little bites, making them a hit for all ages.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, common ingredients, they’re a cost-effective way to enjoy a crowd-pleasing snack.
- Versatile Snack: Serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a fun addition to lunchboxes.
- Nutrient-Packed: These healthy zucchini tater tots are a great way to sneak in extra vegetables.
Ingredients for Homemade Zucchini Tots
Gather these simple ingredients for the best zucchini tater tots:
- 2 medium Zucchini – The star of the show! Proper zucchini shredding for tots is key, so don’t skip draining the moisture.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese – Sharp cheddar or mozzarella work wonderfully for that gooey, cheesy center.
- 1 cup Bread Crumbs – Panko bread crumbs give these the absolute crispiest exterior, but regular ones work too.
- 1 large Egg – This is our binder, holding all the deliciousness together.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder – For that savory kick.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder – Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt – Adjust to your taste preference.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper – Freshly ground adds the best flavor.
- Dipping Sauce (Optional) – Homemade ranch or spicy sriracha mayo are fantastic pairings.
How to Make Baked Zucchini Tater Tots
Making these delightful zucchini tater tots is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps to achieve that perfect crispy exterior and tender middle that everyone loves.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and helps achieve those golden edges.
- Step 2: Prepare your zucchini. After shredding the zucchini, sprinkle it generously with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, wrap the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for getting crispy zucchini tater tots!
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with the shredded cheese, bread crumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until it’s just combined. You want to mix it enough so everything is incorporated, but avoid overmixing, which can make them dense.
- Step 4: Shape the mixture into mini logs, about 2-3 inches long and ½ inch thick. I like to use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture and then roll it between my palms. Place the shaped tots about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures they get plenty of heat for even cooking and crisping.
- Step Step 5: Bake the baked zucchini tater tots in the center rack of your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start to turn a beautiful golden brown and look wonderfully crispy. For the most even browning, flip them halfway through the baking time.
- Step 6: Once they’re golden and crisp, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the zucchini tater tots cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes to help them set up. This makes them even easier to handle and ensures they stay together. Serve these delicious crispy zucchini tater tots hot with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Zucchini Tater Tots
Want to guarantee your zucchini tater tots turn out perfectly every time? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference for these delightful vegetable tater tots.
- Squeeze that zucchini dry! Seriously, get as much moisture out as possible. This is the non-negotiable step for crispy tots.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them space so the hot air can circulate and crisp them up evenly.
- For an extra golden crunch, you can lightly spray or brush the tots with olive oil before baking.
- Experiment with your cheese! A sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, while mozzarella gives you that satisfying pull.
What’s the secret to perfect zucchini tater tots?
The absolute secret to perfect zucchini tater tots is removing as much moisture as possible from the shredded zucchini. This allows the other ingredients to bind and crisp up properly, making for the best zucchini tater tot recipe. For more tips on vegetable preparation, check out our about me page.
Can I make zucchini tater tots ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the mixture for homemade zucchini tots ahead of time. Just form them into logs and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For more information on food preparation, you can refer to terms and conditions.
How do I avoid common mistakes with homemade zucchini tots?
The biggest mistake is not squeezing out enough moisture – this leads to soggy tots. Also, avoid overmixing the ingredients, which can result in a dense texture. Finally, don’t skip flipping them halfway through baking for even crispiness. If you have questions, feel free to contact us.
Best Ways to Serve Zucchini Tater Tots
These versatile little bites are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments. They’re perfect for game day, a fun appetizer, or even a healthier side dish for dinner.
For a classic snack experience, I love serving them with a creamy homemade ranch or a zesty sriracha mayo for dipping. If you’re looking for something a bit richer, try these alongside some cheesy zucchini tater tots or even as a fun side for grilled chicken or fish. They also make a great addition to a veggie platter, especially when served with a variety of dips! Learn more about our privacy policy.
Nutrition Facts for Zucchini Tater Tots
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from these delicious zucchini tater tots per serving. These numbers are based on the recipe as written, so they can vary slightly depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 75 kcal
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on our affiliate relationships, please see our affiliate disclaimer.
How to Store and Reheat Zucchini Tater Tots
Once your delicious zucchini tater tots are baked to perfection, you’ll want to store them properly to enjoy their crispy texture later. It’s important to let them cool completely on a wire rack before packing them away. This prevents any residual steam from making them soggy. For refrigeration, store the cooled tots in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option for this vegetable tater tots recipe. Arrange the cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating is simple! For the best results, pop them back into a preheated oven at around 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. An air fryer also works wonderfully, just a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) will do the trick. Microwaving is an option, but it tends to make them softer rather than crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Tater Tots
Can I make gluten-free zucchini tater tots?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free zucchini tater tots, simply swap out the regular bread crumbs for a gluten-free variety, like almond flour or certified gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I make zucchini tater tots in an air fryer?
Making air fryer zucchini tater tots is a fantastic way to get them extra crispy! Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange the shaped tots in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What are zucchini tater tots compared to zucchini fritters?
While both use shredded zucchini, zucchini fritters vs tater tots differ in shape and texture. Fritters are typically flatter and pan-fried, often with a batter. Tater tots are formed into logs and baked or air-fried, aiming for that classic tater tot shape and a crispier exterior.
Can I add other vegetables to my zucchini tater tots?
Yes, you can! For a more robust vegetable tater tots recipe, try adding finely grated carrots or a little finely chopped bell pepper along with the zucchini. Just be sure to squeeze out the moisture from any added veggies too.
Variations of Zucchini Tater Tots You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic zucchini tater tot recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many fun ways to switch things up and make them your own.
- Gluten-Free Delight: For delicious gluten-free zucchini tater tots, simply substitute the regular bread crumbs with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or certified gluten-free breadcrumbs. This is an easy swap that keeps all the flavor.
- Air Fryer Perfection: If you have an air fryer, you’re in for a treat! Try making air fryer zucchini tater tots for an extra crispy finish with less oil. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
- Cheesy Power-Up: Amp up the flavor by adding more cheese! Consider making cheesy zucchini tater tots by increasing the amount of shredded cheese or adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce into the zucchini mixture.
Zucchini Tater Tots: Amazing Crispy 20-Min Recipe
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy crispy, golden zucchini tater tots made at home. This easy recipe offers a healthier take on a classic comfort food, perfect as a snack or side dish. They are tender inside and delightfully crunchy outside.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Zucchini (Use fresh for best texture)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Sharp cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup Bread Crumbs (Panko or regular for crunch)
- 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
- 1 teaspoon Pepper (To taste)
- Dipping Sauce (Homemade ranch or spicy sriracha mayo, optional for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- After shredding zucchini, sprinkle it with salt, let it rest for 10 minutes, then wrap in a clean towel and squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the squeezed zucchini with shredded cheese, bread crumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture and roll it into mini logs. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet for even airflow.
- Bake the zucchini tater tots in the center rack at 425°F for 20–25 minutes. Flip them halfway through when the edges turn golden brown and crispy for even browning.
- Let the tots cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes to set, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve these zucchini tater tots warm immediately after baking for the best crunch and flavor experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tater tot
- Calories: 75 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
