These Air Fryer Zucchini Cheddar Tots are crispy on the outside, cheesy inside, and a fun way to use fresh zucchini. They taste like little cheesy bites with a soft veggie center. They are easy, fast, and great for a snack, lunch side, or dinner side.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made these when I had one lonely zucchini sitting in the fridge and no big plan for dinner. I shredded it, squeezed out the water, mixed it with cheese and crumbs, and hoped for the best. The air fryer made them crisp so fast, and they disappeared before the rest of dinner was even ready.
Here’s why I keep making them:
- They are crispy without deep frying.
- The cheddar makes them rich and cozy.
- They use simple pantry ingredients.
- They cook fast in the air fryer.
- They are great as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups shredded zucchini, squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons finely diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Olive oil spray
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Box grater
- Clean kitchen towel
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon
- Small scoop or tablespoon
- Plate
Air Fryer Zucchini Cheddar Tots Recipe And Instructions
Step 1: Shred And Squeeze The Zucchini
Shred 2 cups zucchini with a box grater. Place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Twist and squeeze hard until most of the water comes out. This step matters because wet zucchini makes soft tots.
Step 2: Mix The Tot Mixture
In a mixing bowl, add 2 cups shredded zucchini squeezed dry, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons finely diced onion, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. Stir until the mix holds together.
Step 3: Shape The Tots
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the zucchini mixture at a time. Press it into a small tot shape with your hands. Place each tot on a plate. You should get about 18 to 22 tots.
Step 4: Air Fry The Tots
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the zucchini cheddar tots in one layer. Do not stack them. Spray the tops with more olive oil spray. Air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Place the hot crispy zucchini cheddar tots on a round plate. Serve right away with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dip.
Pro Tips
- Squeeze the zucchini really well. This is the biggest trick.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar if you can. It melts better.
- Keep the tots small so they cook evenly.
- Do not crowd the air fryer basket.
- Flip them gently so they stay together.
Why This Recipe Works Quick Science
Zucchini holds a lot of water. When you squeeze it dry, the tots can crisp instead of steam.
The egg helps bind the mixture. Breadcrumbs soak up extra moisture and give the tots shape. Cheddar adds fat, flavor, and a soft melted center. The air fryer moves hot air around the tots, so the outside gets crisp without needing much oil.
Common Mistakes
Using wet zucchini: This makes the tots mushy.
Making the tots too big: Big tots may brown outside but stay soft inside.
Crowding the basket: The tots need space so the hot air can crisp them.
Skipping the oil spray: A little spray helps them turn golden.
Flipping too early: Let them firm up before flipping.
Substitutions And Variations
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Use mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon paprika for a smoky taste.
- Add 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan for more savory flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Make Ahead Tips
You can shred and squeeze the zucchini up to 1 day ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge.
You can also shape the tots a few hours ahead. Place them on a plate, cover, and chill until ready to air fry.
What To Serve With
- Ranch dip
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic yogurt dip
- Grilled chicken
- Turkey burgers
- Tomato soup
- Scrambled eggs
- A simple green salad
Leftovers And Storage
Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This helps them get crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want them crunchy.
Macros Information
Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings:
Calories: 165
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 13g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
FAQ
Can I bake these instead?
Yes. Bake at 425°F for about 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze cooked tots on a tray, then move them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer from frozen.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as you can.
Why are my tots falling apart?
The zucchini may be too wet, or the mixture may need 1 to 2 more tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
Can I make these without egg?
You can try a flax egg, but the tots may be softer.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Zucchini Cheddar Tots are simple, crispy, cheesy, and so easy to love. Make a batch, grab your favorite dip, and enjoy them warm. Leave a comment with how they turned out or any questions you have.