Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe

BySusan Miller August 13, 2025August 13, 2025

Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) are the snack that totally stole my heart! Imagine crispy golden bites loaded with tender zucchini and melty cheddar, all hugged together in a tot form you can bake or air fry. Whether you’re sneaking in more veggies or looking for a mouthwatering appetizer, these are about to become your new obsession.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Irresistibly Crispy & Cheesy: Each tot is loaded with golden, melted cheddar and a savory crunch—so addictive, you’ll crave them again and again.
Veggie-Packed Goodness: Zucchini is cleverly tucked into every bite, making this perfect for picky eaters or anyone trying to eat more greens.
Flexible Cooking Methods: Whether you love your oven or swear by your air fryer, Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) come out fabulous each time!
Freezer-Friendly Snack: Make a batch ahead and stash them for busy days—they reheat with their signature crunch and flavor.

Cheesy Zucchini Tots Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients & Substitutions

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients magically come together in these tots. Each addition serves up a little crunch, flavor, or gooey cheese pull—and there’s room for swaps if you want to make them your own!

Zucchini: Choose firm, medium zucchinis and shred them before squeezing out the liquid for perfect texture.
Finely Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This brings the savory, melty magic—feel free to try Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you’d like.
Large Egg: Helps bind everything together for tots that never fall apart.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Give these tots their signature crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko yields the crispiest result.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a layer of nutty, salty depth. Pecorino Romano or even extra cheddar can stand in here.
Kosher Salt: Simple but so crucial to enhance the veggies and cheese flavors.
Garlic Powder: A little warmth and zest in every bite without overpowering.
Onion Powder: A subtle onion note that completes the flavor profile.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer)

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Start by shredding the zucchini using the coarse side of your box grater—it’s surprisingly satisfying! The game-changing trick here is squeezing out every last drop of moisture: wrap the shredded zucchini in a clean towel and twist hard, so your tots bake up crisp, not soggy.

Step 2: Mix and Shape the Tots

Combine the squeezed-out zucchini in a large bowl with the cheddar, egg, panko, Parmesan, and those flavorful spices. Grab a tablespoon of the mixture and gently squeeze it into classic tot shapes—if things seem loose, just add a touch more panko to help them hold together.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry

If you’re baking, place your tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 425℉ for 25 to 28 minutes until beautifully golden brown. Air fryer fans: give your tray a quick oil spray, pop in the tots (leaving a bit of space), and air fry at 380℉ for about 15 to 18 minutes. Either way, you’ll get gorgeous, crispy Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) every time!

Step 4: Serve and Savor

Pull those piping hot tots from your oven or air fryer and let them cool for just a minute—they’re best warm and crisp. Serve with your choice of ketchup, ranch, or your very favorite dip, and watch them disappear like magic!

How to Serve Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer)

Garnishes

Brighten up your plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, dill, or chives—herbs add a fresh pop that plays beautifully with the rich, cheesy flavors. For a little kick, a dusting of smoked paprika or a few chili flakes on top brings both color and a hint of excitement.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) love company! Pair them with a crisp green salad, grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or even toss alongside a steaming bowl of tomato soup for a nostalgic, comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these tots into party superstars by serving them on a platter with a flight of sauces—think sriracha mayo, zesty ranch, and classic ketchup. For a fun twist, skewer them for tot kebabs or pack them in lunchboxes as a playful, veggie-packed treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the tots have cooled, pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. They stay delightfully tasty and are ready for snacking, lunchbox upgrades, or as a quick side anytime you need them.

Freezing

Want to get ahead? Place cooled Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 months—ideal for easy meal prep!

Reheating

For best crunch, reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375℉ until hot and crispy—just a few minutes will do the trick. The microwave is okay in a pinch but expect a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety—everything else in the recipe works perfectly for a gluten-free version.
How do I keep my zucchini tots from getting soggy?

The key is in really squeezing out all the moisture from the shredded zucchini. If the tots still seem loose, add a little more panko breadcrumbs so they hold together and crisp up beautifully.
Can I use a different cheese in these tots?

Definitely! Try mozzarella for extra stretch, Monterey Jack for mildness, or a sharper cheddar for bolder flavor. Mixing cheeses is also delicious!
What’s the difference between baking and air frying Cheesy Zucchini Tots?

The main difference is time and crispiness—air frying cooks them a bit faster and often gives you slightly more crunch, while baking is great for larger batches. Both methods yield tasty, golden tots!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a veggie upgrade that’s crave-worthy and simple, Cheesy Zucchini Tots (Oven or Air Fryer) are the answer. Make a batch, share with friends and family, and watch how quickly they disappear. I can’t wait for you to try them and fall in love with every crispy, cheesy, irresistible bite!