Name: Baked Zucchini Potato Tots
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 medium russet potatoes; 2 medium zucchini (you can also use squash); 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika, optional); salt and pepper (to taste); Olive oil (for greasing and brushing)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first time I tried Baked Zucchini Potato Tots, I was hosting a gathering with friends, and I wanted to impress them with something unique yet comforting. I had a handful of zucchinis and some russet potatoes in my kitchen, and an idea sparked! Who would have thought that combining these two humble vegetables could lead to such delightful little bites? They were golden, crispy, and packed with flavor, and everyone was raving about them! Watching my friends munch on these delicious tots while reminiscing about our childhood snacks made my heart swell with joy. It felt like I had created something special, bringing a modern twist to a classic comfort food.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
3g g

Tools Used:
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Large Pot, Frying Pan, Oven

The Charm of This Baked Zucchini Potato Tots

They’re a Healthy Alternative

One of the things I absolutely love about Baked Zucchini Potato Tots is that they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried potato tots. The combination of zucchini and potatoes makes for a lighter snack or side dish that’s still satisfying. This means you can indulge without the guilt!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These tots are incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a game day snack, or a party appetizer, Baked Zucchini Potato Tots fit right in. They can be served as a fun finger food, and everyone loves grabbing a few off the platter while mingling.

Customizable Flavor Profiles

The beauty of these tots is that you can customize them according to your taste. Want a little kick? Add some extra chili powder. Prefer a cheesy touch? Toss in more shredded cheddar cheese! The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes making these tots so fun.

Easy to Prepare

Making Baked Zucchini Potato Tots is surprisingly easy. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress anyone. Plus, the prep isn’t time-consuming, making them a perfect option for a quick weeknight meal or last-minute entertaining.

Kid-Friendly

If you have picky eaters at home, these tots can be a game changer! Kids often love finger foods, and with zucchini hidden inside, you can sneak in some veggies without them even noticing. Trust me; they won’t even question what’s in them!

Great for Meal Prep

Another reason I adore Baked Zucchini Potato Tots is that they are fantastic for meal prep. You can make a large batch, freeze them, and then bake them as needed. They hold up well in the freezer, making them a convenient and tasty option for busy days.

What to Buy for Baked Zucchini Potato Tots

When it comes to making Baked Zucchini Potato Tots, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Using fresh, quality produce makes all the difference in flavor and texture. The key players here are zucchini and potatoes. Together, they create a wonderful base that is both nutritious and delicious!

2 medium russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes give the tots a nice structure and help them hold together when baking.
2 medium zucchini: A great way to sneak in some veggies! They add moisture and a subtle flavor.
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Optional, but it adds a creamy, cheesy goodness that many people love.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a lovely depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the tots.
1/2 teaspoon chili powder or paprika: Adds a bit of warmth and color, making the tots even more appealing.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
Olive oil: Used for greasing the baking sheet and brushing over the tots to help achieve that golden brown color.

Step by Step Guide for Baked Zucchini Potato Tots

Making Baked Zucchini Potato Tots is a delightful and straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with crispy, golden tots that everyone will love. Let’s dive right in!

Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender but not fully cooked.
Once cooked, drain the water and let the potatoes cool until they’re comfortable to handle. This cooling step is crucial; you want to be able to shred them without burning your fingers!
Next, grate the zucchini using the large side of a grater. Place the grated zucchini onto a paper towel or dish cloth, and press to remove as much moisture as possible.
Now, it’s time to grate the cooled potatoes. Use the same grater and combine the grated zucchini and potatoes in a medium bowl.
Add in about 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder. Gently mix everything together using your hands, preserving the texture of the potatoes.
Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper or grease it well with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is essential for achieving that crispy exterior!
With your hands, form small cylinders from the mixture, roughly the size of a tablespoon. This is where the fun begins—shaping them into tots!
Once shaped, place the cookie sheet in the freezer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help firm them up, making them easier to handle.
While the tots are firming up, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures they start cooking immediately once they hit the oven.
After the tots have firmed up, brush the tops with a small amount of olive oil and sprinkle each one with a bit of salt. This will help them brown nicely in the oven.
Bake the tater tots for about 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. You’re looking for them to be golden and crispy!

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Matters: When grating zucchini, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Excess water can make the mixture too wet, affecting the final texture.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with different spices to elevate the flavor, such as adding a touch of cumin or Italian herbs.
Perfect Size: Keep the size of each tot consistent to ensure they cook evenly. Aim for uniform shapes and sizes.
Cooling Tips: If you’re short on time, you can cool the potatoes faster by placing them in cold water.

Ways to Customize

Customizing Baked Zucchini Potato Tots is part of the fun! Here are some fantastic ideas to make them your own:

Cheesy Delight: Add more shredded cheddar cheese or try different types like mozzarella or parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Spice It Up: For a spicier version, incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill can add a refreshing flavor and color to your tots.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
Make It Vegan: Omit the cheese and use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
Serving Style: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
Storage: Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked tots on the cookie sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag for future use.
Pairing: Serve your tots with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Perfect Pairings for Baked Zucchini Potato Tots

When it comes to serving Baked Zucchini Potato Tots, there are plenty of delicious pairing options. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Fresh Salad: Pair your tots with a light, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavor of the tots beautifully.
Dip Selection: Offer a variety of dips such as tangy ranch, spicy aioli, or a classic marinara sauce for a fun dipping experience.
Hearty Soup: Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or a light vegetable broth for a comforting meal.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a colorful and healthy side dish that balances the richness of the tots.
Occasions: These tots are perfect for gatherings, game days, or even as a tasty snack during movie nights. They fit in effortlessly at any occasion!
Storage Tips: To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing for Later: Freeze uncooked Baked Zucchini Potato Tots on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for easy access on busy days.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. If you want to make them even further in advance, you can freeze the uncooked tots. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, you can bake them straight from the freezer!

To store leftover Baked Zucchini Potato Tots, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, consider using an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. Simply place them on a baking sheet and reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm and crispy.

These Baked Zucchini Potato Tots are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with fresh salads, dipping sauces like ranch or marinara, or as a side dish to a hearty soup. They also make a great addition to any gathering, serving as a tasty appetizer. Get creative with your pairings!

Definitely! While zucchini and potatoes are the stars of this dish, feel free to experiment with other vegetables as well. Grated carrots or sweet potatoes can add different flavors and colors to your tots. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from any vegetables you choose to use!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Zucchini Potato Tots are a delightful dish that combines health and flavor in one bite. These crispy, flavorful bites are perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or part of a meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your household. The joy of sharing these tots with family and friends will make your cooking experience even more rewarding!