Shredded Zucchini Tots – Healthy, Cheesy, Bite-Sized Snacks
Shredded Zucchini Tots are crispy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Fresh zucchini is shredded, mixed with cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then baked until golden brown. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for appetizers, side dishes, meal prep, or healthy snacking. They are easy to customize with different herbs and cheeses and pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Their crispy outside and tender inside make them irresistible to both children and adults. Nutritious, flavorful, and easy to prepare, zucchini tots are a fun way to enjoy vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Shred the zucchini using a box grater. Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into small tot-sized cylinders.
- Place the zucchini tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to encourage browning.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp around the edges.
- Allow to cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Removing excess moisture is essential for crispy tots.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts best.
- Panko breadcrumbs create extra crunch.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake until deeply golden for maximum crispiness.
- Great for meal prep.
- Freeze well before or after baking.
- Serve immediately for best texture.