Description
These Easy and Healthy Zucchini Tots are a delicious, low-calorie snack or side dish perfect for using up fresh zucchini. Made with shredded zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, these tots bake up crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are a nutritious alternative to traditional potato tots and great for family-friendly meals.
Ingredients
Zucchini Mixture
- 2 cups shredded zucchini
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup dry Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray for greasing muffin pan
Instructions
- Drain the Zucchini: After shredding your zucchini, lay it out on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle salt over it to help draw out the moisture. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, tightly squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid soggy tots.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, diced onion, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Prepare the Muffin Pan: Spray a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Fill each muffin cup with the zucchini mixture, pressing down slightly to compress and form the tots.
- Add Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle a few panko breadcrumbs on top of each filled muffin cup to add a crispy texture once baked.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are slightly golden brown and the tots are cooked through.
- Cool and Remove: Once baked, run a knife around each tot to loosen them from the pan. Let them cool for a minute, then carefully remove the tots from the muffin pan and serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much water from the zucchini as possible to ensure the tots hold together well and aren’t soggy.
- Using extra sharp cheddar cheese adds a stronger flavor, but you can substitute with another cheese if preferred.
- These tots can be served as a healthy snack, side dish, or appetizer.
- For an extra kick, add herbs like parsley or spices such as garlic powder into the mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
