If you have a few zucchini sitting in the fridge and you’re wondering what to do with them, these Crispy Mini Zucchini Tots with Onion are such a fun option. I usually make these when I want something snacky but don’t want to make a big, complicated recipe.
Honestly, the best part is the texture. The outside gets beautifully golden and crisp while the inside stays soft, cheesy, and packed with zucchini. The little bits of onion add just enough savory flavor without overpowering the zucchini.
They’re great as an afternoon snack, a side dish, or even a party appetizer. And if you serve them with a creamy dipping sauce, they disappear ridiculously fast!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, about 2 cups grated
- ½ small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil, for brushing
For Serving
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic yogurt dip
- Sour cream
- Marinara sauce
Step-by-Step Method
1. Grate the Zucchini
Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater.
Sprinkle it with a little salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
2. Squeeze Out the Water
This is the most important step!
Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly until you’ve removed as much liquid as possible.
Honestly, don’t skip this. Too much moisture can make your tots soft instead of crispy.
3. Mix the Ingredients
Add the squeezed zucchini to a large bowl.
Mix in the chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
4. Shape the Mini Tots
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into little round or oval tots.
I usually make them about 1–1½ inches wide so they cook evenly and get plenty of crispy edges.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place the tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Lightly brush or spray them with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crisp around the edges.
6. Make Them Extra Crispy
For an extra golden finish, switch the oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes.
Keep a close eye on them because they can brown quickly.
7. Serve
Let the zucchini tots cool for a couple of minutes, then serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Squeeze the zucchini really well. This is the key to crispy tots.
- Don’t make the tots too large or the centers may stay soft.
- If the mixture seems too wet, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs.
- For even browning, turn the tots halfway through baking.
- A little olive oil on the outside helps create that delicious golden crust.
- You can use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- For a stronger cheesy flavor, add a little extra Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy zucchini tots are incredibly versatile. I love serving them with:
- Creamy ranch dressing
- Garlic and herb yogurt dip
- Marinara sauce
- Spicy mayo
- Tzatziki
- A simple green salad
They also make a great side dish alongside grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, or roasted meats.
Approximate Nutrition
Per serving, based on approximately 4 servings:
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fat: ~11g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~450mg
Nutrition is an estimate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients and amount of oil and cheese used.
Conclusion
These Crispy Mini Zucchini Tots with Onion are proof that simple vegetables can be seriously delicious. They’re golden on the outside, tender inside, cheesy, savory, and incredibly easy to make.
I usually make a double batch because, honestly, they tend to disappear before I’ve even had a chance to put leftovers away! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and you’ve got an easy snack that both kids and adults can enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make zucchini tots in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
2. Can I freeze zucchini tots?
Yes. Let the cooked tots cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.
3. Why are my zucchini tots soggy?
The most common reason is excess water in the zucchini. Make sure you squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing the ingredients.
4. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Absolutely. Substitute your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs without changing the rest of the recipe.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Finely grated carrot, chopped spinach, or a little finely diced bell pepper can work well. Just make sure any watery vegetables are squeezed or drained thoroughly before adding them.