Jump to Recipe Print RecipeEvery time summer rolls around, I find myself swimming in a sea of fresh yellow squash. Recently, while trying to use up my bumper crop, I stumbled upon an invention that turned my ordinary haul into something truly fabulous: Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots! These delightful little nuggets are not only a healthier alternative to those crunchy tater tots we all crave, but they also pack a veggie punch that makes sneaking in nutrition a breeze. Perfect for family gatherings or a quick snack, they can even accommodate those following keto or dairy-free diets. Imagine serving these golden bites, freshly baked with little effort, while your loved ones dive in happily. Intrigued by how effortless it is to whip these up? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s about to make your summer squash obsession even sweeter! Why Are These Tots So Special? Crispy, Golden Delight: Imagine diving into a crunchy exterior with a warm, flavorful interior that outshines any fast-food option! Healthy Twist: These Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are a guilt-free indulgence, boasting wholesome ingredients and lower carbs, perfect for health-conscious snackers. Versatile Serving Option: Serve them as a delightful appetizer, a fun snack for kids, or alongside a fresh Cucumber Chicken Salad for a fuller meal! Easy Adaptation: Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option or need to adhere to keto, this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious! Quick and Easy: With just a few straightforward steps and minimal prep, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes! Family-Friendly: Winning over picky eaters has never been easier—these tots will keep everyone happy without the guilt. Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Ingredients For the Tots • Grated Yellow Squash – The base ingredient; adds moisture and fiber. Use about 2 medium squash, drained well. • Finely Chopped Onion – Adds savory flavor. You can use green onions for a milder taste. • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and flavor. Substitute with dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option. • Seasoned Breadcrumbs – Binds the mixture and adds texture. Almond flour can replace breadcrumbs for a keto twist. • Egg – Acts as a binder to hold the tots together. A flax egg is a great substitute for a vegan alternative. • Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor. Fresh minced garlic can give a more robust taste. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste. • Grated Parmesan – Optional for added flavor. Omit for a dairy-free version or opt for nutritional yeast. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Step 1: Prep the Squash Begin by grating about 2 medium yellow squash using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the squash in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture, ensuring the squash is well-drained. This step is crucial for achieving crispy baked tots, so don’t skimp on the drying! Step 2: Mix the Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained yellow squash with finely chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything until evenly combined, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture will form the base of your delicious Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots. Step 3: Shape the Tots Once your mixture is combined, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into nugget-sized tots. Arrange the formed tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each one for even cooking. This arrangement will help create that golden, crispy texture you’re aiming for. Step 4: Bake Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you shape the tots. Bake the shaped tots in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispness. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden brown and become crisp around the edges, signaling they’re ready to come out. Step 5: Cool & Serve Once baked, take the tots out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This resting time allows the tots to firm up a bit more and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm as a delightful snack or appetizer, and watch them disappear! Storage Tips for Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Fridge: Store the crispy tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their freshness, ensure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, place the baked tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the tots in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes or use an air fryer for that extra crispiness. What to Serve with Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Imagine your family gathering around a table, delighted by the vibrant flavors and tempting aromas from wholesome sides that perfectly complement your crispy bites. Crunchy Salad: A refreshing mix of greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette adds a delightful contrast to the warm, cheesy squash tots. Creamy Avocado Dip: The smoothness of avocado mixed with lime and garlic creates an irresistible dip that elevates the flavor of the tots. Spicy Sriracha Sauce: Add a kick to your snack by serving your tots with this fiery sauce; it offers a bold flavor that balances out the mildness of the squash. Sweet Potato Wedges: Their earthy sweetness paired with the savory tots brings a comforting touch to your meal. Together, they create a beautiful color contrast on the plate. Roasted Veggies: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings beautiful texture and vibrant flavors, turning your snack into a delightful spread. Chilled Gazpacho: A refreshing bowl of cold soup made from ripe tomatoes and cucumbers provides a cooling counterpoint—perfect for those warm summer days. Crisp Sparkling Water: A light, bubbly drink infused with lemon or mint will cleanse your palate, enhancing the experience of enjoying these crispy baked yellow squash tots. Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Variations Feel free to get creative and make these delightful tots your own with these fun twists! Dairy-Free Option: Replace shredded cheddar with a dairy-free cheese substitute for a lactose-friendly treat. You’ll still enjoy that creamy flavor without the dairy! Keto Version: Swap seasoned breadcrumbs for almond flour to keep it low-carb while maintaining that perfect crunch. This variation keeps your diet on track without sacrificing flavor! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a zesty heat that awakens the taste buds. Enjoying the tots with a spicy twist can really elevate this dish! Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for a burst of flavor. This touch of greenery adds not only taste but also a hint of freshness that brightens your plate! Mini Bites: Shape the mixture into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a fun party snack. They’re perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce or enjoying as a finger food at gatherings. Cheesy Explosion: Combine different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a melty inside that adds layers of deliciousness. Think about how delectable those golden bites will be, packed with cheesy goodness! Zesty Citrus: Grate some lemon or lime zest into the mixture for a refreshing zing. It’ll give your tots a twist that will leave everyone guessing at what makes them so special! Try these variations and create memorable moments with family and friends over these scrumptious Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots! You might also enjoy serving them alongside a light salad or as a side to a warm wrap or delicious Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges for a fuller meal experience. Happy cooking! Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Well-Drained Squash: Ensure the grated yellow squash is thoroughly drained to avoid sogginess—this is key for achieving the perfect crispy texture. Preheat Perfectly: Fully preheating your oven promotes even cooking and ensures golden-brown results throughout your Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots. Consistent Sizing: Use a small cookie scoop to create uniformly-sized tots, which helps them cook evenly and get that delightful crispiness. Chill If Loose: If the mixture feels too loose to shape, chill it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to help the tots hold their form better during baking. Optimal Baking Time: Keep an eye on the tots while they bake; ovens vary, and you want them perfectly golden, not overcooked. Make Ahead Options These Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome snack with minimal fuss on busy days! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the grated squash, onion, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To maintain that delightful texture, ensure the mixture is well-drained and tightly wrapped to prevent moisture from seeping in. When it’s time to cook, just scoop, shape, and bake as instructed, resulting in those crispy, golden bites that are just as delicious as if you made them fresh! Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Recipe FAQs How do I select the best yellow squash for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for yellow squash that is firm and relatively small; they tend to be sweeter and more flavorful. Avoid any squash with dark spots all over, as this indicates spoilage. When in doubt, pick those that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant yellow color. What’s the best way to store leftover Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots? Very simple! Store the crispy tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. Just be sure to warm them up in the oven or air fryer to restore that delightful crispiness before enjoying! Can I freeze the Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots and how should I do it? The more the merrier! To freeze, first, place the baked tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible, and label them with the date. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months! What can I do if my mixture is too wet? If your mixture feels too wet to hold its shape, no worries! You can chill it in the refrigerator for about 10–15 minutes to help it firm up. Alternatively, you can add a little extra breadcrumbs or almond flour if it’s still too loose after chilling. This should help you shape them into perfect tots! Are these tots safe for people with food allergies? It’s essential to be cautious! This recipe can easily be adjusted to accommodate various dietary restrictions. For dairy allergies, simply swap out the cheese for dairy-free alternatives. If nut allergies are a concern, ensure you don’t use almond flour. Always check the labels for any hidden allergens in your ingredients! Can my pets eat these tots? Not all ingredients are pet-friendly! While the baked yellow squash is safe for dogs in moderation, remember that cheese and seasonings like garlic powder are not recommended for pets. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your furry friends. Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots: Guilt-Free Snack Delight Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are a healthier alternative to traditional tater tots, perfect for summer snacking with a veggie punch. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SnacksCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tots2 medium Yellow Squash drained well1 medium Onion finely chopped, can substitute with green onions1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese substitute with dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option1 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs almond flour can replace breadcrumbs for keto option1 large Egg a flax egg can be used as a vegan alternative1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic can enhance flavorto taste Saltto taste Pepper1/4 cup Grated Parmesan optional, omit for dairy-free or use nutritional yeast Equipment box graterFood processormixing bowlBaking sheetParchment paperoven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by grating about 2 medium yellow squash using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the squash in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture, ensuring the squash is well-drained.In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained yellow squash with finely chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until evenly combined.Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into nugget-sized tots. Arrange the formed tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you shape the tots. Bake for 22–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.Once baked, let the tots cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delightful snack or appetizer. Nutrition Serving: 1totsCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure the grated yellow squash is thoroughly drained to avoid sogginess. Preheating your oven promotes even cooking. Use a small cookie scoop for consistent sizing. Chill the mixture if it feels too loose to hold shape. Keep an eye on the tots while baking to avoid overcooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
