Learn how to make crispy mini zucchini tots with onion! A golden, flavorful, and easy snack or appetizer recipe the whole family will love.
Introduction
I usually find myself looking for fun ways to use up summer squash, and honestly, these crispy mini zucchini tots with onion have quickly become a massive favorite in my house. Growing up, getting anyone to eat their greens felt like a chore, but when you turn zucchini into golden, bite-sized tots loaded with savory onion and crispy edges, everything changes. They are fun to make, deliciously crispy on the outside, and honestly impossible to eat just one. If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a tasty snack, you have got to try this recipe!
Ingredients
Main Veggies:
2 medium zucchini (grated and squeezed of excess moisture)
1 small yellow onion (finely diced)
Binders & Coating:
1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 large egg (lightly beaten)
Seasoning & Oil:
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Step-by-Step Method
Prep the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini using a box grater, place it in a clean kitchen towel, and squeeze as hard as you can to wring out all the excess water. (This step is key to getting them crispy!)
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed grated zucchini, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Form the Tots: Scoop small portions of the mixture and press them firmly between your hands to form small, bite-sized cylinders or tater-tot shapes.
Heat the Pan/Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or heat a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Cook to Golden Perfection: Brush or drizzle the tots with a little olive oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes (flipping halfway through) or pan-fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Serve: Remove from heat, let cool for a minute, and serve warm!
Cooking Tips
Squeeze Well: Do not skip wringing out the zucchini! If there is too much moisture left in the squash, your tots won’t crisp up properly.
Chill Before Baking: If the mixture feels too loose to handle, pop it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before shaping. It makes forming the tots much easier.
Get Extra Crunch: Swap regular breadcrumbs for Japanese panko breadcrumbs if you want an extra-crunchy exterior.
Serving Suggestions
Dipping Sauces: Serve these hot tots alongside ranch dressing, garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or sriracha mayo.
Party Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for an easy, finger-food party snack.
Side Dish: Pair them alongside your favorite grilled chicken or burgers as a fun alternative to french fries.
Nutrition Info (Approx. Per Serving)
Calories: 160 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 2 g
Conclusion
There is nothing quite like biting into a batch of homemade crispy mini zucchini tots with onion fresh out of the oven. They are simple, packed with wholesome ingredients, and deliver an incredible crunch that will win over even the pickiest eaters. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—let me know how yours turn out in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I air fry these zucchini tots?
Yes, absolutely! Air fry them at 380°F (190°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
How do I keep the tots from falling apart?
Making sure you squeeze out all the liquid from the zucchini and using enough breadcrumbs and egg as binders will keep them holding their shape perfectly.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe because frozen zucchini tends to hold a lot of water and becomes too mushy once thawed.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can form the tots ahead of time and store them on a baking sheet in the fridge for up to a few hours before baking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to bring back their crispiness!
