Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are a simple, crispy snack that come together in minutes and make a great veggie-forward side or appetizer. Lightly seasoned and cheesy, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or packing into lunchboxes, and they pair well with other quick air fryer snacks like air fryer apple fries for a cozy spread.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
- Crispy outside, tender inside with minimal oil.
- Ready in about 20 minutes for fast weeknight cooking.
- Family-friendly finger food that appeals to kids and adults.
- Easy to meal prep and reheat for quick leftovers.
- Customizable with different cheeses or spices.
Ingredients Needed
- Veggies
- 2 medium Zucchini (Grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture.)
- Cheese
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded sharp cheddar for great flavor.)
- Binder
- 1 medium Egg (For binding the ingredients together.)
- Coating
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crunch.)
- Seasoning
- to taste Salt (Add to taste.)
- to taste Pepper (Add to taste.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation — Grate the zucchini and wrap in a clean towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible, then measure the drained zucchini.
- Mix — In a bowl combine drained zucchini, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1 beaten egg, 1 cup breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Shape — Form mixture into small tot shapes, about 1 tablespoon each, pressing firmly so they hold together.
- Preheat — Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes and lightly spray the basket with oil.
- Cook — Arrange tots in a single layer without overcrowding and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Serve — Let cool for 1–2 minutes so they set, then serve warm with your favorite dip.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
- Serve with marinara or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Top with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or chopped chives.
- Pair with a crisp salad and crusty bread for a light meal.
- Offer alongside other air fryer bites like air fryer broccoli cheddar poppers for a party platter.
Tips for Success Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
- Remove as much moisture as possible from zucchini to keep tots from getting soggy.
- Press tots tightly and use panko for extra crunch.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket so air circulates and they crisp evenly.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to revive crispness.
- For a spicier kick, add 1/4 tsp cayenne or smoked paprika to the mix, or try serving with buffalo sauce and air fryer buffalo cauliflower for a themed spread.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon or finely diced ham for extra protein.
- Stir in chopped herbs like basil or dill for bright flavor.
- Make dairy-free by using a vegan cheddar and adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs or a flax egg for binding.
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Air Fryer Zucchini Tots
Crispy exterior and tender interior, these Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are a quick and healthy snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 2 medium Zucchini (Grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture.)
Cheese
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded sharp cheddar for great flavor.)
Binder
- 1 medium Egg (For binding the ingredients together.)
Coating
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crunch.)
Seasoning
- to taste Salt (Add to taste.)
- to taste Pepper (Add to taste.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Grate the zucchini and wrap in a clean towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible, then measure the drained zucchini.
Mixing
- In a bowl combine drained zucchini, 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1 beaten egg, 1 cup breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
Shaping
- Form mixture into small tot shapes, about 1 tablespoon each, pressing firmly so they hold together.
Preheating
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes and lightly spray the basket with oil.
Cooking
- Arrange tots in a single layer without overcrowding and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crisp.
Serving
- Let cool for 1–2 minutes so they set, then serve warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
Remove as much moisture as possible from zucchini to keep tots from getting soggy. For a spicier kick, add cayenne or smoked paprika to mix, or try serving with buffalo sauce.