Easy Cheesy Air fryer Zucchini Tots

These cheesy zucchini tots are super easy to make and cooks in 10 minutes in the air fryer. Both adults and kids alike will love these healthy, low carb zucchini tater tots as a simple snack or appetizer.

Ingredients needed

• Zucchini. Courgettes/Baby marrow.
• Bread crumbs. I used panko breadcrumbs but fresh or dried Italian breadcrumbs can also be used. Substitute with gluten-free bread crumbs if necessary.
• Large eggs.
• Cheese. I used both mature cheddar/sharp cheddar cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Dried dill. Optional. Can be substituted with basil, parsley or oregano.
• Garlic powder. 
• Salt and black pepper.

How to make zucchini tots (summary)

1. Make the zucchini tots mixture: Grate zucchini with a box grated or food processor with a grating attachment. Season with a pinch of salt then transfer to a fine mesh sieve and allow to drain for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, transfer the shredded zucchini to a clean dish towel or muslin cloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Skipping this step will result in a very soggy, wet mixture. Transfer the zucchini to a medium bowl. Add the remaining ingredients, season to taste then mix well until combined.
2. Form the tots: Using slightly damp hands, form tablespoons of the zucchini mixture into tots. You could also form these into mini muffins and bake them in a mini muffin tin.
3. Cook: Spray the basket of an air fryer with non-stick cooking spray then add the zucchini tots in an even layer, slightly spaced apart. You can cook them in a hot oven too, simply place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Air fry the tots at 200ºC/390ºF for 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove and serve.

Can I freeze zucchini tots?

Yes, you can. Once formed, place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper then place in the freezer. Allow to freeze until frozen solid then transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake or air fry from frozen. The cooked tots can also be frozen but might be a little drier once thawed and reheated.

Serving suggestion

I served the zucchini tots with a simple lemon aioli but any dipping sauce of your choice will be delicious.

• Lemon aioli
• Easy Greek Tzatziki
• Easy Tartar sauce

Zucchini recipes

1. 20 minute Lemon Zucchini Pasta with Whipped Goat’s cheese
2. Cheesy Corn Zucchini Fritters
3. Corn and grilled zucchini salad