Name: Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots: Deliciously Healthy Snacking
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups grated yellow squash (or zucchini if preferred); 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional for a milder taste); 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese (opt for dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version); 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (almond flour works as a great keto substitute); 1 large egg (or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)); 1/4 tsp garlic powder (adjust according to taste); salt and pepper (to taste); 1-2 tbsp grated parmesan (optional for a dairy-free recipe)

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As the sun sets on a summer day, I find myself wandering through the garden, envisioning delicious dishes to celebrate the season. That’s when I laid eyes on the yellow squash, glistening under the golden rays, calling out for a fresh culinary twist. Enter my Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots—a delightful, healthy take on the classic spud snack! These miniature treasures are packed with goodies like onions and cheese, but without the guilt; they’re baked, not fried. Aside from being a fun way to sneak veggies into anyone’s meal, they’re also easily adaptable for a dairy-free or keto-friendly diet. Whether you’re planning for a family gathering or simply need a wholesome treat for yourself, these tots promise to impress and satisfy. Ready to rediscover this summer staple? Let’s dive in!

Why are Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots a must-try?

Healthier Alternative: These baked bites replace traditional tater tots, offering a guilt-free snacking option stuffed with nutritious yellow squash.

Versatility: Perfect for any diet, whether you’re after a dairy-free snack or a keto-friendly treat, everyone can enjoy their own customized batch!

Quick & Easy: In just over 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying snack or side that keeps your kitchen and your cleanup simple.

Kid-Approved: Sneaking vegetables into kids’ diets just got easier—these tots are fun to eat and bursting with flavor! Pair them with dips or sauces for an even tastier treat!

Meal Prep Star: Make a batch ahead of time! These tots freeze beautifully, so you can have a healthy snack on hand whenever cravings strike. Check out our Baked Smashed Potatoes for more easy meal ideas!

Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Ingredients

For the Tots

2 cups grated yellow squash – The star of this snack, it provides moisture and nutrients; you can swap in zucchini if preferred.
1/4 cup finely chopped onion – Adds a burst of flavor and texture; feel free to leave it out for a milder taste.
1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Brings creaminess and flavor; opt for dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs – This ingredient binds the mixture and gives it texture; almond flour works as a great keto substitute.
1 egg – Helps to bind everything together; for an egg-free option, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water).
1/4 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to your tastes.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning; tweak as needed for flavor balance.
Optional: 1–2 tbsp grated parmesan – Adds a delightful depth of flavor; omit for a dairy-free recipe.

These Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are a delicious way to enjoy a healthier snack!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots

Step 1: Prep the Squash
Start by grating 2 cups of yellow squash using a box grater. Once grated, place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible—this step is crucial for achieving crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots. You want the squash to be dry to prevent sogginess during baking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained grated squash with 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/3 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs, 1 egg, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well until everything is thoroughly combined and holds together nicely, creating a cohesive dough.

Step 3: Shape the Tots
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into nugget-sized tots. Place each tot on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them. This will help them crisp up nicely as they bake, giving you perfectly formed Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, slide the baking sheet with the shaped tots into the oven. Bake for 22–25 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through the cooking time. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color for that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 5: Cool & Serve
After baking, remove the tray from the oven and let the tots cool for a few minutes. This resting period on the baking sheet allows their texture to set beautifully. Serve them warm, and enjoy these delectable Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots as a wholesome snack or side dish!

What to Serve with Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots

Bite into these golden nuggets and let your taste buds dance; they’re the perfect canvas for a full meal.

Creamy Avocado Dip: This rich and velvety dip adds a refreshing twist that beautifully complements the crispy texture of the tots.
Tangy Yogurt Sauce: The cool tang of yogurt balances the savory flavor of the tots, providing a delightful contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
Garden Salad: A crisp, vibrant garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a light, refreshing side to your snack.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Flavorful, juicy chicken skewers transform this dish into an exciting meal, bringing hearty protein to accompany the veggie-packed tots.
Spicy Marinara Sauce: Dip the tots in a zesty marinara sauce for a flavorful punch that amps up the fun!
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots lend additional nutrition and a satisfying roasted flavor to your meal.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors and makes for an elegant pairing with your tots.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note! These warm, chewy cookies bring a nostalgic feel, balancing the savory dish with a comforting treat.

Mix and match these delightful pairings, and watch everyone gather around to relish the delicious combination!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots are a perfect choice for meal prep! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by grating the yellow squash, squeezing out excess moisture, and combining it with the other ingredients as instructed. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, scoop and shape the tots, and then bake them directly from the fridge. This ensures they are just as delicious and maintain that crispy texture. For longer storage, you can fully shape the tots and freeze them in a single layer for up to 2 months; just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results!

Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize your tots to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy without the dairy.
Keto-Friendly: Replace regular breadcrumbs with almond flour to make these tots low-carb and still enjoyable.
Zucchini Combo: Mix in grated zucchini with the yellow squash for an added flavor twist and vibrant color.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs such as basil or oregano to the mixture for an aromatic flavor enhancement.
Spicy Kick: Include a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy version that’ll please heat lovers.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that adds texture and richness.
Parmesan Alternative: Opt for nutritional yeast instead of grated parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Mini Tots: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized square tots, perfect for appetizers or kid-friendly snacks!

These variations make it easy to tailor the recipe to any dietary needs, giving you endless possibilities to enjoy these crispy bites. If you love exploring veggie-centric recipes, check out our Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini for another fantastic way to use summer produce.

Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots

Drain Thoroughly: Make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture from the squash to avoid soggy tots; a well-drained squash is key to crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots.
Chill Mixture: If the mixture feels loose, chill it in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. This makes shaping the tots easier and helps them hold their form during baking.
Uniform Sizing: Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized tots. This ensures they cook uniformly, achieving that delightful crispy texture everyone loves.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tots—oven temperatures can vary. Rotate them halfway through to get that even golden-brown color on all sides.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with spices! A dash of smoked paprika or Italian herbs can provide an extra depth of flavor, elevating your Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots to new heights.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best results, place a paper towel inside to absorb any moisture and keep them crispy.
Freezer: Freeze the tots in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet for up to 2 months. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for longer storage.
Reheating: To maintain their crispiness, reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. The flavor and texture of your Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots will remain delightful!
Serving Tips: When ready to serve, pair reheated tots with your favorite dipping sauces to elevate the snacking experience!

Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my yellow squash is ripe?
Look for yellow squash that feels firm and doesn’t have dark spots all over. Ideally, it should be about 6-7 inches long; smaller squash often have a sweeter flavor and more tender texture, making them perfect for these tots!

How should I store leftover Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots?
Absolutely! You should refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture and keep those delicious textures intact.

Can I freeze Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots?
Yes, you certainly can! After shaping the tots, freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 1-2 hours. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and they will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.

What can I do if my tots fall apart while baking?
No worries! If they don’t hold together, it could be due to excess moisture or insufficient binding ingredients. Make sure to drain the squash thoroughly and consider adding a little extra breadcrumbs. Also, chilling the mixture for 10-15 minutes before shaping can help form perfect tots.

Are these fries safe for allergic individuals?
Fair question! The recipe can easily be adapted. For dairy allergies, substitute the cheese with dairy-free options, and for egg allergies, a flax egg is a great alternative (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water). Always check for any cross-contamination if someone has severe allergies.

What dips pair best with Crispy Baked Yellow Squash Tots?
The more, the merrier! Tzatziki sauce, spicy ketchup, or a tangy ranch dressing complement these tots perfectly. You can also serve them with guacamole or a zesty salsa for an extra flavor kick!