Air Fryer Zucchini Tots Easy and Crispy Snack Recipe

If you’re looking for a tasty snack that’s easy to make and a bit healthier, air fryer zucchini tots are a great choice. These little bites turn zucchini into a crispy, cheesy treat you can enjoy any time. They cook quickly in the air fryer, giving you a crunchy outside and soft inside without a lot of mess or oil.

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Zucchini tots are perfect if you want to add more veggies to your meals without spending hours in the kitchen. You can dip them in your favorite sauce, and they work well as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Plus, they are kid-friendly and low in carbs, making them a smart option for anyone watching what they eat.

Related Recipe: How to Dehydrate Strawberries in an Air Fryer

How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

You’ll need a few simple ingredients and some easy steps to make air fryer zucchini tots. Getting the right texture means squeezing out moisture and cooking them until crisp but still tender inside.

Ingredients Needed

For tasty zucchini tots, start with:

2 medium zucchinis, grated
1 egg to bind the mixture
½ cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
¼ cup flour (all-purpose or a gluten-free option)
1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
Salt and pepper for seasoning

You can add garlic powder or other spices if you like. Using cheese helps the tots hold together and adds flavor. Flour helps thicken the mixture so the tots shape well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grate the zucchini and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. Let it sit in a sieve for 10 minutes to draw out water.

Next, squeeze the zucchini tightly in a clean towel or cloth to remove as much moisture as possible. This stops the tots from becoming soggy.

In a bowl, mix the zucchini, egg, cheese, flour, onion, and seasoning. Use your hands to form small cylinders or tot shapes, about 1 tablespoon each.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket and tots with oil. Place the tots in a single layer and air fry for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through so they brown evenly.

Tips for the Best Texture

Make sure to squeeze out all the water from the zucchini—excess moisture will make your tots wet and soft.

Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space so hot air can circulate and make them crispy.

If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour to help it stick better.

Let the tots cool for a few minutes before eating, so they firm up and won’t fall apart.

Using cheese gives a nice crispy outside and tender inside. You can add spices or herbs for extra taste.

Serving and Storing Zucchini Tots

You can enjoy zucchini tots with many different sauces and serve them in fun ways. Storing them properly helps keep them fresh, and reheating is quick and easy without losing the crispiness.

Tasty Dipping Sauces

Zucchini tots pair well with many dips. Try ranch dressing for a classic taste or ketchup for a familiar flavor.

For a bit more zest, use salsa or guacamole. These add a fresh, tangy twist that complements the mild flavor of zucchini.

You can also mix sour cream with a little chive or garlic powder to make a creamy dip. These sauces give extra flavor, so you never get bored.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store your zucchini tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They last about 2 months frozen.

To reheat, use your air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps keep the tots crispy. Avoid reheating in the microwave because they can get soggy.

Creative Serving Ideas

Use zucchini tots as a side for burgers or sandwiches to add a healthy twist. You can also serve them topped with a little melted cheese for a snack.

Try putting them on a salad for extra crunch or serve them alongside grilled chicken or fish. They make a fun finger food for parties or family meals.

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