Crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside—these Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are a snack lover’s dream! Made with fresh zucchini, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan, these bite-sized delights are packed with flavor while staying light and healthy. The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without all the excess oil, making them an ideal choice for guilt-free snacking.
Whether you’re serving them as a fun appetizer, a quick snack, or even a tasty side dish, these zucchini tots are a versatile addition to any meal. Pair them with a zesty lemon aioli, classic marinara sauce, or creamy ranch for the ultimate dipping experience. Plus, they’re kid-approved and freezer-friendly, making them great for meal prep!
Full Recipe:
- 1 kg (2 lb) zucchini
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried dill (or substitute with basil, parsley, or oregano)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Directions:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit in a fine mesh sieve for 10 minutes to drain excess moisture.
- Transfer the zucchini to a clean tea 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 cheese, garlic powder, and dill. Season with salt and pepper and mix well.
- With slightly damp hands, shape tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into tots.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with non-stick spray and arrange the tots in a single layer, spaced apart.
- Air fry at 200ºC/390ºF for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 31 kcal per tot | Servings: 30 tots (depending on size)
Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots: A Crispy, Healthy Snack for Any Occasion
Zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables, and these Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are proof of that! Packed with gooey cheddar and Parmesan, these golden, crispy bites offer a delicious way to enjoy a healthy snack, appetizer, or side dish. The air fryer makes them irresistibly crunchy while keeping them light and nutritious. If you’re looking for a fun and easy recipe to add to your collection, this is it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These zucchini tots are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional tater tots, which rely on potatoes and deep frying, this version uses shredded zucchini as the base. This swap significantly reduces the carb content and adds a boost of vitamins and minerals. Plus, the air fryer creates a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil, making this recipe a healthier alternative to store-bought or fried snacks.
What makes these zucchini tots even better is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, paired with your favorite dipping sauces, or served as a tasty side dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a kid-friendly treat, or just want a quick and easy meal, these cheesy zucchini tots are a fantastic choice.
The Secret to Perfect Zucchini Tots
A key step in making zucchini tots is properly draining the zucchini. Since zucchini contains a high water content, failing to remove excess moisture can result in soggy tots that don’t crisp up in the air fryer. The best method is to sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt and let it sit for a few minutes before squeezing out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This small but essential step ensures that your tots hold their shape and achieve a crispy exterior.
Additionally, using a combination of cheeses enhances the flavor and texture. Cheddar provides a rich, creamy taste, while Parmesan adds a slightly nutty and salty element. The breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together while also contributing to the crunch factor.
Air Fryer vs. Oven: Which Method is Best?
One of the main advantages of this recipe is the air fryer’s ability to cook food quickly while achieving a crispy finish. Compared to baking in a conventional oven, air frying takes less time and produces better texture. However, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy these zucchini tots by baking them in the oven.
To bake them, place the tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. While the oven method may take slightly longer, it still results in delicious, golden-brown tots with a satisfying crunch.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces
Zucchini tots pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some great options include:
- Lemon Aioli – A creamy, tangy dip made with mayonnaise, garlic, and fresh lemon juice.
- Marinara Sauce – A classic tomato-based sauce that complements the cheesy goodness of the tots.
- Tzatziki Sauce – A refreshing yogurt-based dip with cucumber and garlic for a Mediterranean twist.
- Ranch Dressing – A crowd-pleaser that adds a creamy, herby flavor to every bite.
These tots can also be served alongside other dishes. They make a fantastic side for grilled meats, sandwiches, or vegetarian meals. You can even add them to a salad for an extra crunch!
Can You Make Zucchini Tots in Advance?
Yes! These tots are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. There are two ways to prepare them in advance:
- Refrigerate Before Cooking – Form the tots and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply air fry or bake them.
- Freeze for Later – Arrange the uncooked tots on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them for up to 3 months. You can cook them straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
If you have leftover cooked tots, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to restore their crispiness.
Health Benefits of Zucchini Tots
Zucchini is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers several health benefits. It is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent ingredient for those looking to eat healthier. Some key benefits of zucchini include:
- Supports Digestion – High in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Contains vitamins A and C, which help combat inflammation and boost the immune system.
- Great for Weight Management – Low in calories and carbs while being satisfying and filling.
- Heart-Healthy – Supports cardiovascular health with its high potassium content.
By replacing traditional tater tots with zucchini tots, you get all the deliciousness of a crispy snack while incorporating a vegetable-packed alternative into your diet.
How to Customize Your Zucchini Tots
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few fun variations:
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
- Extra Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Protein-Packed – Mix in some cooked, crumbled turkey bacon or finely chopped chicken.
- Herb-Infused – Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for added flavor.
No matter how you customize them, these tots are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Conclusion
Cheesy Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and nutritious. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fried snacks, a kid-friendly recipe, or a quick appetizer for your next gathering, these zucchini tots check all the boxes.
Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve that perfect golden crispiness without deep frying, making this a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Try making a batch today and enjoy a crispy, cheesy snack that everyone will love!