Crispy, Cheesy Zucchini Tots

Looking for a snack that feels indulgent but still helps you sneak in more veggies? These crispy, cheesy zucchini tots are packed with flavor, come together quickly with simple ingredients, and make the perfect bite-sized treat for busy days, picky eaters, or anytime you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.

Okay, tell me if this sounds familiar: you want a snack that feels indulgent but doesn’t totally throw your goals off track. You’re craving something warm, cheesy, maybe even a little nostalgic—like tater tots—but you’re also trying to sneak a few more veggies into your day (especially if you’ve got picky eaters around).

That’s exactly where these Zucchini Tots come in.

I’m not saying they’ll replace tater tots in your heart forever, but they will give you that crispy, satisfying bite, with just enough cheese and flavor to feel like a treat. And they come together fast, with simple ingredients you probably already have in your fridge.

Whether you’re making these for yourself, as an after-school snack, or as a cozy side dish on burger night, they’re a low-effort, high-reward kind of recipe. (Also: they reheat like a dream in the air fryer.)

Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Tots

Here’s why these always hit the spot:

• They’re snacky, cheesy, and slightly crispy. Everything you want in a bite-sized treat.
• You can make them ahead. Great for meal prep or just to have on hand when hunger strikes.
• They’re veggie-packed without tasting “too healthy.” Perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.
• You only need one zucchini. Seriously.

And if you’re following a low-carb or keto-adjacent lifestyle, these are a nice way to switch things up from eggs and cheese.

What You’ll Need to Make Zucchini Tots

• 1 cup zucchini, grated
  (You’ll want to squeeze the moisture out—more on that in a second.)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  (Sharp cheddar brings great flavor, but feel free to swap in mozzarella, pepper jack, or whatever’s in your fridge.)
• ⅓ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  (If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
• 1 teaspoon minced onion
  (You can use fresh or dried if you’re short on time.)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Zucchini Tots (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set it to 400°F and spray your baking sheet with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Grate and Drain the Zucchini

Use the coarse side of a box grater to shred the zucchini. Then, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel (or a few layers of paper towels) and really squeeze out the liquid. This step makes the difference between soggy and crispy tots.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the drained zucchini, egg, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, parmesan, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until it all comes together into a thick, sticky mixture.

Step 4: Scoop and Shape

Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion the mixture onto your baking sheet. Then, use the bottom of a small bowl or glass to gently flatten each scoop into a tot-like shape.

Step 5: Bake and Flip

Bake for 18 minutes total, flipping the tots halfway through (around the 9-minute mark) so they get crispy on both sides. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown finish.

Tips & Tricks

• Air Fryer Option: These do great in the air fryer! Try 375°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
• Double the Batch: These go fast, especially if you’re feeding kids or snack-loving partners. Double the recipe and freeze some for later.
• Add-ins to Try: Mix in a bit of garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), or even a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
• Serve With: Marinara for dipping, a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), or alongside grilled chicken or burgers.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly

You can totally make these ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warm and crispy.

Serving Ideas

These zucchini tots are the ultimate flex snack. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• As an appetizer: Add a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.
• Alongside dinner: Great with burgers, grilled chicken, or even soup.
• As a lunchbox item: They hold up well and are delicious at room temp.
• Weekend brunch board: Add them to a cozy brunch spread with fruit, eggs, and coffee.

A Quick Note on Picky Eaters

If you’ve got a kiddo who’s suspicious of green food, these tots are a clever workaround. The zucchini kind of disappears into the mix, especially once it’s shredded, drained, and baked with cheese and breadcrumbs. You can even pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor to achieve a more uniform texture.

These Zucchini Tots are one of those little recipes that just quietly makes your day easier. They’re fast to prep, don’t require a trip to the store, and feel like a win every time you pull them out of the oven.

Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables, feed your family better, or just want a cozy little bite of something that feels good and tastes even better, these are worth adding to your rotation.