Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, these Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are the ultimate snack or side dish. Made with fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar, and savory parmesan, they deliver a satisfying crunch while staying light and healthy. The air fryer works magic by crisping them to golden perfection without excess oil, making them a guilt-free treat!
Perfect for meal prepping, entertaining, or a quick snack, these tots pair beautifully with dipping sauces like lemon aioli, Greek tzatziki, or classic marinara. They’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in cheesy goodness. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them solo, these zucchini tots are sure to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
- 1 kg (2lb) zucchini
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (double the quantity if using fresh breadcrumbs)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor with a grating attachment.
- Season with a pinch of salt, transfer to a fine mesh sieve, and let drain for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the shredded zucchini to a clean dish towel or muslin cloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheddar cheese, parmesan, garlic powder, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Using slightly damp hands, shape the mixture into small tots.
- Spray the basket of an air fryer with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the tots in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
- Air fry at 200ºC/390ºF for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 31 kcal per tot | Servings: Approximately 30 tots
Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots – A Crispy, Healthy Delight
Zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables you can cook with, and these Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are proof of that. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb snack, a kid-friendly meal option, or a fun appetizer for a party, these golden, crispy bites are the perfect choice. Made with simple ingredients like shredded zucchini, cheddar, parmesan, and breadcrumbs, they offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors while being light and nutritious.
Unlike traditional tater tots, which are made from potatoes and often deep-fried, these zucchini tots are air-fried for a healthier alternative without compromising on crunch or taste. The air fryer method reduces the oil content, making them lower in fat while still achieving that irresistible crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These zucchini tots have something for everyone. Whether you’re trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, follow a low-carb lifestyle, or simply love cheesy, crispy snacks, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
- Quick and Easy – These tots take only about 35 minutes from start to finish, making them an excellent option for a last-minute snack.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Zucchini is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making these tots a healthier alternative to store-bought fried snacks.
- Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love these crispy little bites! The cheese adds richness and flavor, making them an instant hit with children.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – You can make a big batch, freeze them, and cook them whenever you need a quick side dish or snack.
The Magic of Air Frying
Air frying has gained massive popularity as a healthier cooking alternative to deep frying. The rapid air circulation in an air fryer helps crisp up food without needing excessive oil, making it a great tool for those who want crispy, crunchy textures without the added calories.
In this recipe, the air fryer works wonders in transforming soft, shredded zucchini into crispy, golden bites. Unlike baking, which can sometimes leave foods slightly soft, air frying creates a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the cheesy filling inside.
The Role of Cheese in These Zucchini Tots
Cheese plays a significant role in making these zucchini tots so delicious. A combination of cheddar and parmesan brings out a rich, savory taste while helping to bind the ingredients together. The cheddar adds creaminess and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, while the parmesan enhances the flavor with its nutty, slightly salty notes. Together, they create a deeply satisfying cheesy experience in every bite.
If you’re looking to experiment, you can also try using other cheeses like mozzarella for a stringier texture or gouda for a mild, smoky flavor.
How to Make Zucchini Tots Extra Crispy
Achieving maximum crispiness in zucchini tots requires a few key techniques. Since zucchini naturally contains a lot of water, removing excess moisture is crucial. Here’s how you can ensure your tots turn out perfectly crispy every time:
- Drain and Squeeze the Zucchini – After grating the zucchini, let it drain in a sieve with a bit of salt, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean dish towel or muslin cloth. This step is essential to prevent soggy tots.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs – Compared to regular breadcrumbs, panko creates a lighter, crispier texture, making it the best choice for this recipe.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Air Fryer – When placing the tots in the air fryer basket, leave space between them so that hot air can circulate evenly. If needed, cook in batches to ensure crispiness.
- Adjust Cooking Time if Needed – Every air fryer model varies slightly, so keep an eye on the tots and adjust the cooking time if necessary to get them golden brown and crispy.
Dipping Sauces to Elevate the Flavor
While these zucchini tots taste incredible on their own, pairing them with a delicious dipping sauce takes them to the next level. Here are some great options:
- Lemon Garlic Aioli – A zesty, garlicky dip that perfectly complements the cheesy goodness of the tots.
- Greek Tzatziki – The refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip adds a cool contrast to the crispy, warm tots.
- Classic Marinara Sauce – A simple tomato-based sauce adds a tangy, herby touch.
- Chipotle Mayo – A smoky, spicy dip that enhances the flavor for those who love a bit of heat.
How to Store and Reheat Zucchini Tots
If you make a large batch or have leftovers, storing and reheating them properly ensures they stay just as delicious as when freshly made.
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftover tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply air fry them for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to restore their crispiness.
- In the Freezer: Arrange the uncooked tots on a baking sheet, freeze them solid, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Air fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Ideas for Zucchini Tots
Zucchini tots can be enjoyed in many ways beyond just a snack or appetizer. Here are a few creative serving ideas:
- As a Side Dish – Serve them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or burgers for a crispy, cheesy vegetable boost.
- In a Lunchbox – Pack them for a healthy, protein-rich snack that kids and adults will love.
- Topped on Salads – Crush them slightly and sprinkle them over salads for added crunch.
- As a Party Appetizer – Arrange them on a platter with multiple dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing snack at gatherings.
A Healthier Alternative to Tater Tots
One of the biggest advantages of making zucchini tots instead of traditional potato-based tater tots is their nutritional value. Zucchini is a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. This makes zucchini tots a fantastic option for those watching their carb intake or looking for a healthier alternative to processed snacks.
By using an air fryer, this recipe eliminates the need for deep-frying, which significantly reduces the amount of oil and overall calorie content. Combined with protein-rich cheese and fiber-packed breadcrumbs, these tots offer a satisfying crunch without the guilt.
Conclusion
Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are an easy, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. Whether you’re looking for a kid-approved recipe, a party appetizer, or a fun way to incorporate more veggies into your meals, these tots deliver on all fronts. Their crispy exterior, cheesy center, and perfectly seasoned taste make them irresistible, while the air fryer ensures they stay light and crunchy without excess oil.
With endless ways to customize, pair with dips, and store for later, these zucchini tots are a must-try for anyone who loves quick, tasty, and wholesome homemade snacks. Give them a try and watch them become a household favorite!