Crispy Baked Zucchini Tots You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

If your garden (or grocery bag) is overflowing with zucchini, I’ve got the perfect recipe to turn those green beauties into something everyone will actually beg to eat. These crispy baked zucchini tots are crunchy on the outside, soft in the middle, and totally addictive—think of them as a lighter, veggie-packed version of classic tater tots. Even the pickiest eaters won’t mind the sneaky zucchini in these little bites. And if you love creative ways to use up seasonal produce, you might also enjoy browsing recipes from Love & Lemons—their zucchini ideas are always so fresh and fun.

I first started making zucchini tots as a way to sneak more veggies into weeknight dinners, and honestly, I didn’t expect them to become a family favorite. But the first time I pulled a tray from the oven, golden and sizzling, they disappeared faster than any side dish I’d ever made. Now they’ve become a staple—easy to whip up, freezer-friendly, and versatile enough for snacks, sides, or even party appetizers. Once you try them, you’ll see why I keep coming back to this recipe over and over.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Zucchini Tots

You don’t need anything fancy for these tots—just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create that perfect crunchy-meets-tender bite.

• Zucchini (2 medium, shredded): The base of the recipe. Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible for crispy results.
• Breadcrumbs (¾ cup): Helps bind the mixture and adds crunch. Panko works especially well for extra crispiness.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds salty, savory flavor and helps form a golden crust in the oven.
• Egg (1, large): Acts as the glue that holds everything together.
• Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Brings a subtle depth of flavor. Fresh minced garlic works too if you want a bolder taste.
• Onion Powder (½ tsp): A little sweetness and balance—skip if you prefer, but it rounds out the flavor.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that make the zucchini shine.
• Olive Oil Spray (optional): A quick spritz before baking helps the tots crisp up beautifully.

How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Tots

These little bites are simple to pull together, but a few tricks make all the difference in getting that golden, crunchy finish.

1. Prep the zucchini. Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place the shreds in a clean kitchen towel or layers of paper towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. (This is the secret to avoiding soggy tots!)
2. Mix the base. In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
3. Shape into tots. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture at a time and roll it gently into a small log or oval shape. Place each tot onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out so they can crisp up instead of steaming.
4. Bake until golden. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil (optional but highly recommended). Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch when ready.
5. Cool slightly & serve. Let the tots rest for 5 minutes before serving—they’ll hold together better as they set. Dip them in ketchup, ranch, or your favorite sauce and enjoy them while warm and crispy.

Tips & Variations for the Best Zucchini Tots

One of the best things about these tots is how flexible they are—you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Flavor Boosts & Add-Ins

• Cheesy Upgrade: Swap Parmesan for sharp cheddar or mix the two for a richer flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for a little kick.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, basil, or dill add brightness and freshness.

Ingredient Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Low-Carb: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly twist.
• Egg-Free: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) works as a binder for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crisp.
• Freezer-Friendly: Arrange unbaked tots on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to the cook time.
• Meal Prep Hack: Make a double batch, freeze half, and always have crispy veggie tots ready to go.

Serving Suggestions for Zucchini Tots

These crispy zucchini tots are so versatile—they can be a snack, a side, or even the star of the meal, depending on how you serve them. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Classic Snack Style: Serve with ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping. Perfect for kids (and adults who still love dunking!).
• Party Platter: Arrange them with a variety of sauces—think spicy sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or marinara—for an easy appetizer spread.
• Weeknight Dinner Side: Pair them with grilled chicken, burgers, or fish for a lighter alternative to fries.
• Brunch Twist: Serve alongside eggs and bacon for a fun, veggie-packed breakfast plate.
• Healthier Comfort Food: Load them into a bowl with melted cheese and a drizzle of hot sauce—like zucchini tot nachos!

Whether you keep it simple or dress them up, these little bites always disappear fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to peel the zucchini first?
Nope! The skin is tender and adds extra nutrients and color. Just grate the zucchini as is.

2. My tots came out soggy—what went wrong?
The most common issue is excess moisture. Be sure to squeeze the shredded zucchini really well with a towel before mixing it into the batter.

3. Can I make zucchini tots in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.

4. How do I freeze zucchini tots?
You can freeze them unbaked or after baking. To freeze unbaked tots, place them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

5. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Try crushed crackers, almond flour, or even rolled oats pulsed in a blender. Each gives a slightly different texture but still works well.

6. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese or swap in a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will be a little different, but the tots will still hold together.

Final Thoughts

Crispy baked zucchini tots are proof that a healthy snack can still feel fun, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform humble zucchini into golden bites that are perfect for dipping, sharing, or sneaking straight from the tray. They’re a recipe you’ll come back to again and again—whether you’re feeding kids, entertaining friends, or just looking for a lighter way to satisfy that fried-food craving.

If you loved these tots, you might also enjoy exploring other veggie-packed snack ideas from Skinnytaste. They’re full of easy, family-friendly recipes that make eating well feel effortless. So grab that zucchini and get baking—you may just discover your new favorite go-to snack.

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