![The key to making the best cheesy zucchini tots is in the ingredients. Here’s what you need: - 2 medium zucchinis, grated - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 2 green onions, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing Each ingredient plays an important role. The zucchinis provide moisture and texture. Cheese adds that gooey, rich flavor we all love. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together and create a crispy crust. Using fresh green onions and garlic gives the tots a nice kick. The spices, salt, and pepper enhance all the flavors. Remember, you can mix and match cheese types for your favorite taste. Follow the [Full Recipe] to see how these ingredients come together for a tasty treat. 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet. Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. 2. Grate zucchini and remove excess moisture. Take two medium zucchinis and grate them using a box grater or a food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key! If you skip it, your tots will be soggy. 1. Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained zucchini, 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 finely chopped green onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything well until it's fully combined. 2. Shape the mixture into tots. Using your hands, form small shapes from the mixture. Aim for about 1-2 inches long. Place each tot on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between them so they cook evenly. 1. Place on prepared baking sheet and apply oil. Lightly spray or brush the tops of the tots with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps them brown nicely while baking. 2. Bake and achieve desired crispiness. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the tots for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done. Now you’re ready to enjoy these tasty cheesy zucchini tots. You can find the complete recipe in the Full Recipe section. Draining the grated zucchini is key. If you skip this step, your tots may turn soggy. Zucchini has a lot of water. After grating, place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This simple trick makes a big difference in texture. Your tots will be crispy and delightful. Feel free to get creative with flavors. Adding herbs makes a big impact. Consider using fresh basil or dill for a fresh taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick. You can also try adding smoked paprika for a unique twist. Experiment with spices to find your favorite mix. Each tweak can make your zucchini tots special. For even baking, space the tots well on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate. Flipping them halfway through baking helps achieve that golden color. If you want a crunchier top, spray or brush the tops lightly with oil. Every small step counts in making your tots perfectly crispy. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy making these delicious bites! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese for fun flavors. Instead of cheddar or mozzarella, try using gouda or pepper jack. Goat cheese adds a creamy tang, while feta brings a salty kick. Each choice changes the taste and texture of your tots. Mix and match to find your favorite combo! Zucchini is great, but you can add more veggies to the mix. Finely chopped carrots or bell peppers blend well. Spinach or kale can boost nutrition and color. Just remember to drain any extra moisture. This keeps your tots crispy and delicious. If you like heat, add some spice! Chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes work wonders. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. This fiery twist makes your cheesy zucchini tots a tasty treat. Enjoy the kick that brings life to each bite! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To store leftover cheesy zucchini tots, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them later. For longer storage, you can freeze the tots. First, let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the tots to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, do not thaw before reheating. To keep your cheesy zucchini tots crispy, use an oven or an air fryer. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tots on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. For an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes. This way, they stay warm and crispy. Enjoy them as if they were freshly made! Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Zucchini Tots ahead of time. - Grate the zucchinis and drain them as you normally would. - Mix the ingredients in a bowl. - Form the tots and place them on a baking sheet. - Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. You can keep them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just bake them right before serving! Cheesy Zucchini Tots taste great on their own, but they pair well with dips. - Marinara sauce adds a nice tang. - Ranch dressing gives a creamy touch. - Ketchup works for a classic flavor. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a full meal. Yes, you can make Cheesy Zucchini Tots gluten-free! - Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. - Check the cheese packaging to ensure it is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites without worry. Enjoy the Full Recipe to start making your own! Cheesy zucchini tots are a fun and tasty treat. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for the perfect bake. Don’t forget the flavor boosts from herbs or spice! You can even mix in other veggies or choose different cheeses. Store leftovers well for later or freeze them for future snacks. Remember, these tots are not just easy to make; they’re also great for getting kids to eat their greens. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these cheesy bites!](https://toastedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/98e6a370-6e57-49a6-bf8c-ac030354107d.webp)
Want a tasty snack that’s easy to make? These Cheesy Zucchini Tots are just the thing! Packed with flavor, they’re perfect for kids and adults alike. You can whip them up with simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, they’re crispy and cheesy, making them hard to resist. Let’s dive in and make this delicious treat together!
Ingredients for Cheesy Zucchini Tots
The key to making the best cheesy zucchini tots is in the ingredients. Here’s what you need:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 green onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Each ingredient plays an important role. The zucchinis provide moisture and texture. Cheese adds that gooey, rich flavor we all love. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together and create a crispy crust.
Using fresh green onions and garlic gives the tots a nice kick. The spices, salt, and pepper enhance all the flavors. Remember, you can mix and match cheese types for your favorite taste.
Follow the [Full Recipe] to see how these ingredients come together for a tasty treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet.
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Grate zucchini and remove excess moisture.
Take two medium zucchinis and grate them using a box grater or a food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key! If you skip it, your tots will be soggy.
Mixing and Forming Tots
1. Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained zucchini, 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 finely chopped green onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined.
2. Shape the mixture into tots.
Using your hands, form small shapes from the mixture. Aim for about 1-2 inches long. Place each tot on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between them so they cook evenly.
Baking Instructions
1. Place on prepared baking sheet and apply oil.
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the tots with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps them brown nicely while baking.
2. Bake and achieve desired crispiness.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the tots for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these tasty cheesy zucchini tots. You can find the complete recipe in the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks for Perfecting Zucchini Tots
Moisture Management
Draining the grated zucchini is key. If you skip this step, your tots may turn soggy. Zucchini has a lot of water. After grating, place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This simple trick makes a big difference in texture. Your tots will be crispy and delightful.
Flavor Enhancements
Feel free to get creative with flavors. Adding herbs makes a big impact. Consider using fresh basil or dill for a fresh taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick. You can also try adding smoked paprika for a unique twist. Experiment with spices to find your favorite mix. Each tweak can make your zucchini tots special.
Cooking Techniques
For even baking, space the tots well on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate. Flipping them halfway through baking helps achieve that golden color. If you want a crunchier top, spray or brush the tops lightly with oil. Every small step counts in making your tots perfectly crispy.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy making these delicious bites!
Variations of Cheesy Zucchini Tots
Cheese Alternatives
You can switch up the cheese for fun flavors. Instead of cheddar or mozzarella, try using gouda or pepper jack. Goat cheese adds a creamy tang, while feta brings a salty kick. Each choice changes the taste and texture of your tots. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Additional Vegetable Mix-Ins
Zucchini is great, but you can add more veggies to the mix. Finely chopped carrots or bell peppers blend well. Spinach or kale can boost nutrition and color. Just remember to drain any extra moisture. This keeps your tots crispy and delicious.
Spicy Spin on the Recipe
If you like heat, add some spice! Chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes work wonders. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. This fiery twist makes your cheesy zucchini tots a tasty treat. Enjoy the kick that brings life to each bite!
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info for Cheesy Zucchini Tots
Refrigeration Directions
To store leftover cheesy zucchini tots, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them later.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, you can freeze the tots. First, let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the tots to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, do not thaw before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To keep your cheesy zucchini tots crispy, use an oven or an air fryer. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tots on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. For an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes. This way, they stay warm and crispy. Enjoy them as if they were freshly made!
FAQs about Cheesy Zucchini Tots
Can I make Cheesy Zucchini Tots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Zucchini Tots ahead of time.
– Grate the zucchinis and drain them as you normally would.
– Mix the ingredients in a bowl.
– Form the tots and place them on a baking sheet.
– Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.
You can keep them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just bake them right before serving!
What can I serve with Cheesy Zucchini Tots?
Cheesy Zucchini Tots taste great on their own, but they pair well with dips.
– Marinara sauce adds a nice tang.
– Ranch dressing gives a creamy touch.
– Ketchup works for a classic flavor.
You can also serve them with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a full meal.
Are Cheesy Zucchini Tots gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Cheesy Zucchini Tots gluten-free!
– Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
– Check the cheese packaging to ensure it is gluten-free.
This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites without worry. Enjoy the Full Recipe to start making your own!
Cheesy zucchini tots are a fun and tasty treat. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for the perfect bake. Don’t forget the flavor boosts from herbs or spice! You can even mix in other veggies or choose different cheeses. Store leftovers well for later or freeze them for future snacks. Remember, these tots are not just easy to make; they’re also great for getting kids to eat their greens. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these cheesy bites!
![The key to making the best cheesy zucchini tots is in the ingredients. Here’s what you need: - 2 medium zucchinis, grated - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 2 green onions, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing Each ingredient plays an important role. The zucchinis provide moisture and texture. Cheese adds that gooey, rich flavor we all love. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together and create a crispy crust. Using fresh green onions and garlic gives the tots a nice kick. The spices, salt, and pepper enhance all the flavors. Remember, you can mix and match cheese types for your favorite taste. Follow the [Full Recipe] to see how these ingredients come together for a tasty treat. 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet. Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. 2. Grate zucchini and remove excess moisture. Take two medium zucchinis and grate them using a box grater or a food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key! If you skip it, your tots will be soggy. 1. Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained zucchini, 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 finely chopped green onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything well until it's fully combined. 2. Shape the mixture into tots. Using your hands, form small shapes from the mixture. Aim for about 1-2 inches long. Place each tot on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between them so they cook evenly. 1. Place on prepared baking sheet and apply oil. Lightly spray or brush the tops of the tots with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps them brown nicely while baking. 2. Bake and achieve desired crispiness. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the tots for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done. Now you’re ready to enjoy these tasty cheesy zucchini tots. You can find the complete recipe in the Full Recipe section. Draining the grated zucchini is key. If you skip this step, your tots may turn soggy. Zucchini has a lot of water. After grating, place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This simple trick makes a big difference in texture. Your tots will be crispy and delightful. Feel free to get creative with flavors. Adding herbs makes a big impact. Consider using fresh basil or dill for a fresh taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick. You can also try adding smoked paprika for a unique twist. Experiment with spices to find your favorite mix. Each tweak can make your zucchini tots special. For even baking, space the tots well on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate. Flipping them halfway through baking helps achieve that golden color. If you want a crunchier top, spray or brush the tops lightly with oil. Every small step counts in making your tots perfectly crispy. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy making these delicious bites! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese for fun flavors. Instead of cheddar or mozzarella, try using gouda or pepper jack. Goat cheese adds a creamy tang, while feta brings a salty kick. Each choice changes the taste and texture of your tots. Mix and match to find your favorite combo! Zucchini is great, but you can add more veggies to the mix. Finely chopped carrots or bell peppers blend well. Spinach or kale can boost nutrition and color. Just remember to drain any extra moisture. This keeps your tots crispy and delicious. If you like heat, add some spice! Chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes work wonders. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. This fiery twist makes your cheesy zucchini tots a tasty treat. Enjoy the kick that brings life to each bite! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To store leftover cheesy zucchini tots, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them later. For longer storage, you can freeze the tots. First, let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the tots to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, do not thaw before reheating. To keep your cheesy zucchini tots crispy, use an oven or an air fryer. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tots on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. For an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes. This way, they stay warm and crispy. Enjoy them as if they were freshly made! Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Zucchini Tots ahead of time. - Grate the zucchinis and drain them as you normally would. - Mix the ingredients in a bowl. - Form the tots and place them on a baking sheet. - Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. You can keep them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just bake them right before serving! Cheesy Zucchini Tots taste great on their own, but they pair well with dips. - Marinara sauce adds a nice tang. - Ranch dressing gives a creamy touch. - Ketchup works for a classic flavor. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a full meal. Yes, you can make Cheesy Zucchini Tots gluten-free! - Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. - Check the cheese packaging to ensure it is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites without worry. Enjoy the Full Recipe to start making your own! Cheesy zucchini tots are a fun and tasty treat. You learned about key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for the perfect bake. Don’t forget the flavor boosts from herbs or spice! You can even mix in other veggies or choose different cheeses. Store leftovers well for later or freeze them for future snacks. Remember, these tots are not just easy to make; they’re also great for getting kids to eat their greens. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these cheesy bites!](https://toastedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/98e6a370-6e57-49a6-bf8c-ac030354107d-300x300.webp)