Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

If you’re looking for a delightful snack that’s both healthy and kid-friendly, you’ve come to the right place! These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are one of my all-time favorites. They are packed with wholesome ingredients and baked to crispy perfection, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a side dish, these tots will surely put smiles on everyone’s faces.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You can even make a big batch and store the extras in your freezer for those days when you need a quick bite. Plus, they pair beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces, adding an extra layer of fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious tots ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: These baked sweet potato zucchini tots are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead: Perfect for meal prep—make a big batch and freeze them for later!
• Gluten-Free Option: Easily swap breadcrumbs for almond flour to keep it gluten-free.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with veggies, these tots are a guilt-free treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how these ingredients come together so simply! Each one brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish. Let’s gather what we need:

• 1 cup grated sweet potato
• 1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Olive oil spray

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a little heat!
• Cheese Swap: Use your favorite cheese such as pepper jack or vegan cheese for a different twist.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate other grated veggies like carrots or spinach for added nutrition.

How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

Peel and grate the sweet potato until you have one cup. Next, take your zucchini, grate it, and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean towel. This step is key because it prevents soggy tots!

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your grated sweet potato, zucchini, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. This mixture forms the base of our delicious tots!

Step 4: Shape the Tots

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, shape the mixture into small tots. Place them on your prepared baking sheet. This step helps ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.

Step 5: Spray with Olive Oil

Lightly spray the tops of the tots with olive oil. This extra bit of oil will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake your tots in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and crispy—just like traditional tots but healthier!

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once baked, serve your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots hot out of the oven with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Creating the perfect tots is easier than you think, and these tips will help ensure they turn out delicious every time!

• Grate finely: Using a fine grater helps the vegetables blend better and creates a smoother texture, ensuring your tots hold together well.
• Squeeze out moisture: Removing excess water from the zucchini is crucial. This prevents sogginess and helps achieve that desired crispiness on the outside.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sweet potatoes and zucchini enhance flavor and nutrition. Plus, they make your tots taste even better!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor profile of your tots.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Leaving space between each tot allows hot air to circulate, which helps them bake evenly and become crispy.

How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

These delightful baked sweet potato zucchini tots are not only tasty but also versatile in how you can serve them. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to your dish.
• Grated cheese: A little extra shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top right before serving can melt slightly, creating an inviting presentation.
• Sour cream alternative: A dollop of plant-based sour cream or yogurt can provide creaminess that contrasts nicely with the crispy texture.

Side Dishes

• Crunchy salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the tots while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted veggies: Tossed with olive oil and your choice of spices, roasted vegetables like carrots and peppers make a colorful and nutritious side.
• Quinoa or rice pilaf: These grain options offer a hearty base, making for a more filling meal alongside your tasty tots.
• Vegetable sticks with dip: Pairing these bites with fresh veggie sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers served with hummus creates a wholesome snack platter.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots! Enjoy this healthy treat any time of day!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the tots to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-5 days for best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooked tots on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tots to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the frozen or thawed tots on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots that might help you!

Can I make Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots without cheese?

Absolutely! You can replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How long do Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last for 3-5 days in the fridge.

Are Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots gluten-free?

Yes, simply use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free!

How do I ensure my Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are crispy?

Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible and lightly spray with olive oil before baking.

Can I use other vegetables in my Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with grated carrots or cauliflower for added nutrition and variety.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots! They’re not only easy to prepare but also a nutritious snack that everyone will love. Whether for a quick lunch, a fun appetizer, or just something to munch on while watching a movie, these tots are sure to be a hit. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share how they turned out!