Description
If you’ve ever wished vegetables could disappear as fast as party snacks, these Baked Zucchini Tots are your answer. They’re crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor—no frying required. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these tots are a fun, approachable way to turn zucchini into something everyone actually wants to eat.
Ingredients
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2 cups shredded zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
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½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup breadcrumbs (regular, panko, or gluten-free)
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1 large egg, lightly beaten
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Prep the Zucchini
Shred zucchini and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel or paper towels. This step is crucial for crispiness. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine zucchini, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture holds together when pressed. -
Shape the Tots
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and shape into small oval “tots.” Place on the baking sheet with space between each. -
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on both sides. -
Cool Slightly & Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to help them firm up.
Notes
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Squeeze, squeeze, squeeze! Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
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Bake at high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.
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For extra crunch, place tots on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.
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If the mixture feels wet, add a spoonful of breadcrumbs.