Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots: A Cozy, Crunchy Crowd-Pleaser

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots are a fun and delicious way to include more veggies in your diet. They are crunchy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a healthy appetizer. Not only are they easy to make, but they also appeal to kids and adults alike. Making these tots is a great way to use up zucchini, especially during the summer months when they are in season.

How to Make Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots

Making these tasty tots is simple and requires just a few steps. You will have crispy and cheesy bites ready to enjoy in no time.

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchini (about 4 cups shredded)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Shred the zucchini using a box grater, toss with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Squeeze the shredded zucchini thoroughly in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
4. In a large bowl, combine the dried zucchini, cheeses, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings.
5. Mix until well combined, then scoop small portions and shape them into bite-sized cylinders or tots.
6. Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

How to Serve Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots

Serve these delicious zucchini tots hot out of the oven for the best texture. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or your favorite garlic sauce. You can also serve them as a side dish alongside burgers or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

How to Store Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots

To store leftover zucchini tots, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Tips to Make Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots

• Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. This step is crucial for getting crispy tots.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to change the flavor. Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a nice twist.
• For extra crunch, you can mix in some crushed tortilla chips or add more panko breadcrumbs.
• If you want a healthier version, you can skip the eggs and use a flax egg instead to bind the ingredients.

Variation

You can add different vegetables to the mixture, such as shredded carrots or finely chopped spinach, for a colorful and nutritious twist. Also, try adding herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.

2. Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Form the tots and bake them when you’re ready.

3. Are these zucchini tots gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular panko.

Enjoy making and sharing these Crispy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots. They are sure to be a hit!

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