Are you tired of the same old side dishes that leave you feeling guilty? Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these mouthwatering Oven Baked Zucchini Tots! Imagine a crispy, golden-brown treat that's packed with vegetables, oozing with cheese, and so delicious that even picky eaters won't be able to resist. These tots are not just a side dish; they're a game-changing culinary experience that transforms humble zucchini into an irresistible crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent soggy tots.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, shredded mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into compact tot-shaped cylinders, approximately 1-2 inches long. Press firmly to ensure they hold together.
- Arrange the zucchini tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each tot to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The tots should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: The key to crispy tots is removing as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel and squeeze with all your might to prevent soggy results.
- Don't Skip the Cheese: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan provides both moisture and incredible flavor. Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and taste.
- Consistent Size Matters: Use a cookie scoop or form tots with uniform size to ensure even cooking and a professional look.
- Spacing is Crucial: Leave some space between tots on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate, creating crispy edges all around.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While the recipe provides a classic flavor profile, feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano, or spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serving Suggestions: These tots are versatile! Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a fun lunch box item. Pair with marinara, ranch, or a zesty garlic aioli for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg
