Crispy Mini Zucchini Tots with Onion
These Crispy Mini Zucchini Tots with Onion are golden and crunchy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with fresh zucchini and sweet onion flavor. They’re perfect as a healthy appetizer, snack, lunchbox treat, or side dish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 24 tots)
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Tots
- 2 medium zucchini, grated (about 2 cups)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
Optional Garlic Yogurt Dip
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This is essential for crispy tots.
- Grate the onion and squeeze out excess liquid as well.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Grated zucchini
- Grated onion
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Eggs
- Garlic
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Parsley
- Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture.
- Shape into small oval tots.
- Arrange on the baking tray, leaving a little space between each.
- Lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Carefully flip each tot.
- Bake another 5–8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Prepare the Dip
- Mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Air Fryer Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Arrange the tots in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Cook until golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic yogurt dip.
- Pair with marinara sauce.
- Enjoy with ranch dressing.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or burgers.
- Add to lunchboxes.
- Enjoy with a fresh garden salad.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Calcium: 25% DV
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked tots on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–8 minutes until hot and crispy.
Nut Information
Contains Nuts? No.
Tree Nuts: None.
Peanuts: None.
Sesame: Not included.
Allergy Note: This recipe is naturally nut-free. Always check the labels on breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings if preparing for someone with severe nut allergies, as manufacturing practices may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are my zucchini tots falling apart?
A: The zucchini may still contain too much moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes. Replace the panko breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Q: Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
A: Absolutely. Yellow squash works just as well and has a similar texture and flavor.
Q: Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
A: Yes. Refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
Q: Can I use mozzarella instead of cheddar?
A: Yes. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese are all delicious alternatives.
Q: How do I make the tots extra crispy?
A: Remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini, use panko breadcrumbs, lightly brush with oil, and avoid overcrowding the baking tray or air fryer basket.
Q: Can I freeze uncooked zucchini tots?
A: Yes. Freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake or air fry directly from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with zucchini tots?
A: Garlic yogurt dip, ranch dressing, marinara sauce, spicy aioli, honey mustard, chipotle mayo, or tzatziki are all excellent choices.
