Zucchini Tater Tots
Zucchini Tater Tots
Table of Contents
Zucchini Tater Tots
Zucchini Tater Tots are a delicious low-carb, gluten-free twist on traditional tater tots. Oven-baked to perfection, they’re cheesy, tender, and make an ideal appetizer.
These zucchini tots are an excellent snack or appetizer for adding more veggies to your diet. Baked instead of fried, they offer a fantastic low-carb option for your football party. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, they can be made in advance. These healthier tots are sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients To Make The Tater Tots
Zucchini: In this healthier, low-carb tot recipe, zucchini replaces potatoes. Packed with vitamins C and A and rich in fiber, zucchini makes for an easy and nutritious ingredient that I love to use.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together. If possible, opt for a free range or organic egg for the best quality.
Cheese: You can’t have tots without cheese! I recommend using a sharp shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For added texture, I’ve included panko breadcrumbs. They help absorb excess moisture, and I always choose gluten-free options like Ian’s or Kikkoman to keep the recipe flourless.
Spices: I seasoned these zucchini tater tots with Italian seasoning, onion powder, and a touch of salt and pepper for a flavorful kick. Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste.
How To Make Zucchini Tots
Grate the Zucchini Tater Tots and then place it in a kitchen towel to squeeze out the excess moisture. You’ll be surprised by how much water comes out, so make sure to remove as much as possible.
Next, combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring they stick together without being too wet. If the mixture seems too moist, feel free to add more breadcrumbs as needed.
Take a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a tater tot with your hands. Arrange the tots on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake in the oven. While you can cook them in a skillet, it requires more time and attention; the oven is the quickest method.
Tips For Making Zucchini Tater Tots
Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the shredded zucchini using a dish towel or paper towels. This step is essential for achieving crisp and cheesy tater tots. While some moisture may remain, every bit you remove helps.
If the mixture isn’t sticky enough, add more panko breadcrumbs. As you mix, it should start to hold together. If it feels too wet and isn’t sticking, gradually add more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time.
For an easier option, use a mini muffin tin. Instead of shaping each tot individually, simply scoop the mixture into the tin. Just make sure to use a high-quality non-stick tin to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Freeze Zucchini Tots?
Freeze the tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a ziplock bag and return them to the freezer. This method keeps them individually frozen, so you can thaw only what you need.
Cooked tots can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days, and you can easily reheat them in the microwave or toaster oven.
What Do You Serve With Zucchini Tater Tots ?
These tots are ideal for entertaining a crowd, whether it’s for the big game or another gathering. They pair perfectly with ketchup or any of your favorite dips, like Homemade Ranch Dip or Creamy Feta Dip! You can also enjoy them as part of a main meal alongside Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries.
Are These A Good Alternative To Store Bought Potato Tots ?
Store-bought potato tots are often high in salt and fat, even when baked. In contrast, this homemade zucchini tots recipe has significantly less salt and fat, with about 115 calories per tot. Plus, you’ll benefit from the vitamins and minerals found in fresh zucchini.
There are countless ways to use zucchini as a substitute for carbs in comfort recipes, and these healthy zucchini tots have become one of my favorites. I love how simple they are to make, requiring no hard-to-find ingredients or special tools. They’re perfect for game day snacks, appetizers, or even in your kids’ lunchboxes. Everyone will enjoy them.
If you’ve tried this delicious Zucchini Tots recipe or any other from FeelGoodFoodie, please take a moment to rate it and leave a comment below! I’d love to hear about your experience. If you took any photos, feel free to share them with me on Instagram so I can repost them in my stories.
You may like: Chorizo Stuffed Bell Peppers.
Zucchini Tots
Ingredients
- ▢2 cups grated zucchini about 2 zucchinis
- ▢1 large egg
- ▢½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ▢½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ▢1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ▢¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ▢Salt and pepper to taste
- ▢Ketchup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the grated zucchini into a kitchen towel and squeeze all excess liquid out. Discard the liquid. It should come out to 1 cup packed after the liquid is squeezed out.
- Transfer the dried zucchini into a medium bowl. Add the egg, cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper, and then combine until mixture sticks together.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form into small ovals, like the shape of tater tots. Makes about 16.
- Place the tater tots on the greased baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden.
- Serve warm with ketchup or other dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
