Description
These Mouthwatering Cheesy Zucchini Tots are a delicious and crispy appetizer or snack made with fresh zucchini, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Ready in just 25 minutes, they are baked to perfection for a guilt-free treat that pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini (grated and squeezed out moisture)
- 2 large eggs (binding agent for the tots)
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (adds extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup regular bread crumbs (mix provides wonderful texture)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to preference)
- 1/4 tsp pepper (adds heat)
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder (enhances flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (provides creamy goodness)
Serving
- Marinara sauce (perfect dipping sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater. Then, wrap the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to ensure crispy tots.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, eggs, panko bread crumbs, regular bread crumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Tots: Scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into small tot-like cylinders or balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each tot for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake the zucchini tots in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the tots from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy your savory cheesy zucchini tots.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini to prevent soggy tots.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with any other melty cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular and panko breadcrumbs.
- These tots can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- If you prefer extra crispy tots, consider flipping them halfway through baking.
