Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

Air Fryer Zucchini Tots –Mmm, tater tots. The perfect appetizer or snack food that is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. But what if I told you that these were zucchini tarts? That’s right! Air Fryer Zucchini Tots!

Check out these delicious and homemade Air Fryer Zucchini Tots. 7 ingredients are all you need for zucchini tater tots. A crispy and cheesy zucchini tot that pairs perfectly with dinner. 

If you are a fan of zucchini, these homemade tater tots need to be on your list to make. Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and grated zucchini take center stage. 

Learn how to make air fryer zucchini tots in no time at home. Plus, you can prep these in advance, freeze them, and air fryer later! 

Are you looking for ever more Air Fryer Zucchini Recipes? Here are some of my favorites: AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI FRITTERS, AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI CHEDDAR SAVORY MUFFINS, AIR FRYER PARMESAN ZUCCHINI FOIL PACKETS, and AIR FRYER, ZUCCHINI PIZZA BITES.

What Are Zucchini Tots?

Zucchini tots are simply tater tots made from zucchini instead of shredded potatoes! Crispy, cheesy, and downright delicious. 

Zucchini tater tots can be a snack paired with chicken tenders, burgers, etc.  These bite-size tots are a great way to sneak more veggies into your child’s diet.

Why You Will Love This Recipe For Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

If you want a delicious and healthy way to enjoy zucchini, you will love this air fryer zucchini tots recipe. These tots are made with just a few simple ingredients and are so tasty that you will have difficulty resisting them. Plus, they are low in calories and carbs, making them the perfect choice if you are trying to stick to a healthy diet. Cook up a batch of these zucchini tots today and see how delicious they are!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

Zucchini tots are a fun and healthy way to enjoy your favorite comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can quickly have this delicious side dish on the table. Plus, air frying them makes them extra crispy without any added oil. Give this recipe a try for your next meal!

Remember the step-by-step directions below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page and the nutritional information.

• Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of this dish, grated and squeezed of excess moisture to ensure the tots hold their shape and texture.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural flavors of the zucchini and other ingredients.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent, keeping the ingredients together during cooking.
• Pecorino cheese or Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the tots.
• Breadcrumbs: They help bind the tots together and add a delightful crunch to the exterior.
• Minced Garlic or Garlic Powder: Offers a hint of garlic flavor without the need for chopping fresh garlic
• Cooking Spray: A light spray on the air fryer basket prevents sticking and helps achieve a crispy texture on the tots.

With these ingredients, you can easily whip up a batch of Air Fryer Zucchini Tots that are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional tots

How To Cook Zucchini Tater Tots In The Air Fryer

Below are instructions for the best air fryer zucchini tater tots! With a crispy texture and is a great way to serve your family some extra veggies!

Step One: Prepare The Shredded Zucchini

Begin grating your zucchini and place the shred on a paper towel or clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes. 

This is going to draw out excess moisture in the zucchini. Wrap zucchini in paper towels or a clean dish towel and squeeze to remove excess water. 

Step Two: Prepare The Cheesy Zucchini Tots

Place the zucchini in a large bowl and add the cheese, egg, bread crumbs, and seasonings. Mix well.

Step Three: Air Fry Zucchini Bites

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F for 3-5 minutes. While the fryer is heating, you will begin shaping your tater tots. Just grab a bit and make it into a tater to shape. Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil, place a single layer in the basket, and set the cooking time for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove when golden brown, sprinkle with salt, and serve. 

Step Four: Serving Crispy Zucchini Tots

serve with your favorite dipping sauce or sprinkle some cheese.

Recipe Variations Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are versatile, and you can easily customize them with various ingredients to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some delightful recipe variations:

• Cheese Variations: Swap out Parmesan for other types of cheese like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil to the mixture for a fresh and aromatic twist.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, mix in some red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or cayenne pepper.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binding agent for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace the egg with a vegan binding substitute like flax eggs (flaxseed meal mixed with water) and use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Additional Vegetables: Mix in grated vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or squash for added flavor and nutrition.
• Bacon Bits: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon into the tot mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara sauce for dipping for an Italian-inspired treat.
• Ranch Flavored: Mix in a ranch seasoning blend for a tangy and herbaceous taste.
• Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a crunch and nutty flavor.

These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs or mix things up. Zucchini tots are a delicious snack or side dish and a fun way to get creative in the kitchen!

Pro Tips For The Best Air Fryer Zucchini Bites

To achieve the best results when making Air Fryer Zucchini Bites, consider these pro tips:

• Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: After grating the zucchini, thoroughly squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This is crucial for preventing soggy bites and ensuring they crisp up nicely.
• Uniform Size for Even Cooking: Make sure all your zucchini bites are roughly the same size. This promotes even cooking and ensures that all bites are done simultaneously.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and may prevent the zucchini bites from getting crispy.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer ensures a quick and even cook like a conventional oven. It helps in getting a crispy exterior right from the start.
• Use the Right Amount of Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help bind the bites and add crispiness. However, too many can dry them, while too few might not hold them together well.
• Season to Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your preferred flavor profile.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Flip the zucchini bites halfway through the cooking time for even browning and crispiness.
• Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray: A light spray helps achieve a crispy, golden brown exterior without sticking to the air fryer basket.
• Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the zucchini bites sit for a few minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the hot zucchini bites from the air fryer.

These tips will help you create delicious and crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Bites that are perfect as a healthy snack or a tasty side dish.

Faq’s

Do I Need to Peel the Zucchini? No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds extra nutrients and a bit of color to the tots.

How Do I Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini? After grating the zucchini, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to avoid soggy tots.

Can I Make Zucchini Tots Ahead of Time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to air fry them just before serving for the crispiest texture.

What’s the Best Temperature for Air Frying Zucchini Tots? Typically, 350°F to 400°F (200°C) works well for getting a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist.

How Long Do Zucchini Tots Take to Cook in the Air Fryer? They usually take about 10-15 minutes. However, cooking times can vary depending on the size of your tots and the model of your air fryer.

Can I Freeze Air Fryer Zucchini Tots? Yes, you can freeze them after shaping. Freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can cook them directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

How Can I Tell When Zucchini Tots Are Done? They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The inside will be firm but not dry.

Can I Use Panko Breadcrumbs for a Crunchier Texture? Absolutely! Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier exterior compared to regular breadcrumbs.

Is It Necessary to Flip Them During Cooking? Yes, flipping them halfway through ensures they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

What Dips Pair Well with Zucchini Tots? They are great with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a yogurt-based dip for a healthier option.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Zucchini Bread
• Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries 
• Zucchini Pizza Bites 

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