These Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are the healthy snack that always disappears SO quickly in our house! Made from 4 simple ingredients — grated zucchini, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs and egg — these are not only easy, but incredibly fun too. They’re air fried to golden, crispy perfection and are loved by kids & adults alike. A healthier spin on a nostalgic favorite!
These Air Fryer Zucchini Tots have been a summer staple for the last 3ish years! They are truly such a fun way to get your veggies in, while feeling like a kid again. I’m also obsessed with how easy they are…just 4 main ingredients & a little patience required when shaping them into tots (I usually tap in my husband to help me out lol).
There’s no better time than now to transform all that delicious, in-season summer zucchini into a tasty and nutritious snack! These tots are perfectly crispy on the outside, and cheesy on the inside — what more could you want!? I honestly regret not doubling the recipe every time I make them because let’s just say….they go quick.
These zucchini tater tots are naturally vegetarian and you can easily make them gluten free by using gluten free panko breadcrumbs. And thanks to the shredded cheddar and eggs, there’s actually 2g of protein in each tot…so it’s a bit more of a balanced & filling option than traditional tater tots! Try them out for yourself, or make them for your kids, and let me know whatcha think!
Why You’ll Love these Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
- These are a healthier, veggie-filled take on the classic tater tots!
- They are air fried to crispy golden perfection.
- These zucchini tots are vegetarian, and can be made gluten free.
- They are the perfect summer snack, for kids & adults alike!
- Each tot has 2g of protein, for a balanced & filling snack option.
What You Need to Make these Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
- Zucchini: You will need roughly 2-3 medium zucchinis, or 2 packed cups after shredding and squeezing out all the excess moisture. These tots are a great way to sneak in some seasonal, summer veggies!
- Eggs: 2 large eggs act as the binder for these zucchini tots, while also adding a bit of protein.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Feel free to substitute a gluten free variety if you need to – I like the Aleia’s brand.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar helps to hold the zucchini tots together and also adds some yummy flavor! I typically use white cheddar for aesthetic reasons, but yellow cheddar is fine too. Just be sure it’s finely shredded, not thick-cut.
- Italian Seasoning, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Some simple seasonings to add flavor to these zucchini tater tots! Don’t be shy with the salt – I recommend about 3/4 tsp.
How To Make these Zucchini Tater Tots
Shred Zucchini & Squeeze Out Moisture:
First, shred your zucchinis on the largest holes of your box grater. Then transfer them to a tea towel and squeeze out as much of the excess moisture as possible. You will need 2 packed cups of shredded zucchini for this recipe.
Mix Together Zucchini Tots:
Next, add eggs to a large bowl and beat them with a fork or whisk. Then, add in the shredded zucchini, breadcrumbs, cheddar and seasonings. Use a spatula to stir until combined.
Form into Tater Tots:
Scoop out 1 tbsp of the zucchini mixture, squish it between your hands to condense it a bit, then shape into small tots, about 1.5-2″ in length. Add them to a parchment-lined air fryer tray. You should get about 30 zucchini tots in total.
Air Fry & Enjoy:
Finally, spray the top of the zucchini tots with some cooking oil, then air fry at 400F for 15 minutes, or until they’re a deep golden color. Keep an eye on them, as every air fryer is different. Serve with ketchup and enjoy!
Substitution FAQS:
- Can I use gluten free breadcrumbs? Absolutely! I like the brand Aleia’s, but feel free to use your favorite. I have NOT tested this recipe with anything other than breadcrumbs though, so experiment at your own risk with alternatives like almond flour, etc.
- Can I use dairy free cheese? I have not tested a dairy free version of these zucchini tots, and although they may work, dairy free cheese doesn’t typically melt well and therefore the tots may not hold together.
- Can I oven bake these instead of air fry? If you don’t have an air fryer, try oven baking them at 400F for about 25 minutes, or until golden.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Tater Tots?
These zucchini tater tots are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To re-heat, you can throw them in the air fryer at 350F for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.
Find the full recipe below. As always, please let me know if you tried it by commenting below or tagging me on Instagram, @munchinwithmaddie_.
Looking for More Zucchini Recipes?
- Savory Zucchini Cornbread Loaf
- Creamy Corn Orzo with Shrimp
- Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
- Healthy Bolognese with Zucchini Noodles
- Smoky Harissa Shrimp and Summer Veggie Skillet
Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
Equipment
- box grater
- tea towel
- fork
- spatula
- parchment paper
- 1 tbsp cookie scoop (optional)
Ingredients
- 2-3 medium zucchinis
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (can sub GF)
- 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- kosher salt & black pepper to taste
- cooking spray
Instructions
- First, shred your zucchinis on the largest holes of your box grater. Then transfer them to a tea towel and squeeze out as much of the excess moisture as possible. You will need 2 packed cups of shredded zucchini for this recipe.2-3 medium zucchinis
- Add eggs to a large bowl and beat them with a fork or whisk. Then, add in the shredded zucchini, breadcrumbs, cheddar and seasonings. Use a spatula to stir until combined.2 large eggs, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tsp italian seasoning, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp garlic powder, kosher salt & black pepper
- Scoop out 1 tbsp of the zucchini mixture, squish it between your hands to condense it a bit, then shape into small tots, about 1.5-2" in length. Add them to a parchment-lined air fryer tray. You should get about 30 zucchini tots in total.
- Spray the top of the zucchini tots with some cooking oil, then air fry at 400F for 15 minutes, or until they're a deep golden color. Keep an eye on them, as every air fryer is different. Serve with ketchup and enjoy!cooking spray
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Did you make this recipe?
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @munchinwithmaddie_ on Instagram and/or hashtag it #munchinwithmaddie.