If you’re craving a fun, tasty twist on traditional tater tots, Yellow Squash Tots are a must-make for your kitchen! These golden, bite-sized delights pack all the comfort of classic tots with a burst of fresh, veggie-forward flavor thanks to sweet yellow squash, savory cheddar, and just the right kick of onion and spice. They’re baked (not fried!), easy to whip up, and make the perfect snack, appetizer, or kid-friendly side dish—even picky eaters will be back for seconds. With every bite, you’ll wonder how something so healthy can taste so satisfyingly delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for these Yellow Squash Tots are thoughtfully simple, allowing each one to shine in texture, flavor, and color. Each component brings something unique, from melty cheese to the nutty breading, making these tots truly irresistible.
- Yellow squash: Naturally sweet and mild, this is the star ingredient that gives the tots their signature golden color and moist, tender bite.
- Salt: Not only seasons, but draws out excess moisture from the squash for perfectly crisp tots.
- Onion: Adds savory depth and a touch of aromatic sweetness that balances the dish.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts as the tots bake, adding richness and helping bind everything together.
- Breadcrumbs (or almond flour): Ensures a crisp exterior; almond flour keeps things gluten-free without sacrificing crunch.
- Egg: Acts as the binder, holding all the ingredients in tidy tot form while adding a bit of lift.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and flavor without overpowering the delicate squash.
- Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat to sharpen and highlight all the other flavors.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: Helps achieve that golden, satisfyingly crisp finish as the tots bake.
How to Make Yellow Squash Tots
Step 1: Prepare and Drain the Squash
First things first: to ensure your Yellow Squash Tots are crisp and not soggy, you’ll want to get as much moisture out of the grated squash as possible. Place the grated squash in a colander and sprinkle it with salt—this will draw out excess water. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wrap the squash in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and give it a firm squeeze over the sink. You’ll be amazed by how much liquid comes out! This little effort makes a big difference in texture.
Step 2: Mix the Tot Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your drained squash with the chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), egg, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a fork or your hands to thoroughly mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly sticky—easy to shape, but not too wet.
Step 3: Prep the Baking Sheet
Get your oven preheating to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and lightly coat it with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil. This will help your tots achieve that glorious golden crispiness on the outside.
Step 4: Shape the Tots
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms into small tot-like cylinders or ovals. Place each tot onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they cook and crisp up evenly. There’s something genuinely satisfying about shaping these little gems, and you can even get kids involved here!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through. This helps both sides become perfectly golden brown and crisp on the outside, with a softly cheesy middle that’s utterly tempting. Once done, serve them up nice and warm—few things compare to that first bite fresh from the oven!
How to Serve Yellow Squash Tots
Garnishes
Dress up your Yellow Squash Tots with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or even a light dusting of smoked paprika for a touch of color and subtle smokiness. These flavorful finishes make your tots look as fantastic as they taste.
Side Dishes
These tots pair beautifully with just about anything. For a simple snack, serve them with classic ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce. As a side, they complement grilled chicken, veggie burgers, or even a big summer salad. Their friendly, savory flavor plays nicely with just about any meal—making them wildly versatile.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation to the next level by skewering Yellow Squash Tots on toothpicks for a playful party appetizer platter. Tuck them into lunchboxes as a wholesome alternative to chips, or pile them high in a bowl for a cozy movie night treat. You can also sandwich them between mini slider buns with lettuce and tomato for adorable veggie sliders!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which honestly is a rare occurrence!), let your tots cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay delicious and fresh for up to 4 days. This makes weekday snacking and meal prep a total breeze.
Freezing
Yellow Squash Tots freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead snack. Arrange cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—simply reheat from frozen when the craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive that crisp exterior, reheat your tots in a 375°F oven or air fryer until warmed through and sizzling at the edges, about 8 to 10 minutes. Microwaving is quick but will soften the outside, so use the oven or air fryer for hot, crunchy results just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works well as a substitute, though you’ll want to drain it thoroughly—just like with yellow squash—to avoid sogginess. The flavor is similarly mild, so you’ll still get tasty tots.
Are Yellow Squash Tots gluten-free?
Yes, they can be! Just swap the regular breadcrumbs for almond flour or your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. You’ll still get that perfect golden crunch with every bite.
What’s the best dipping sauce for Yellow Squash Tots?
While classic ketchup or ranch are always hits, try pairing them with spicy sriracha mayo, tzatziki, or even honey mustard. The mild flavor of the tots means they play well with almost any dip you love!
Can I air fry Yellow Squash Tots?
Definitely. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, arrange the tots in a single layer, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through. This method makes them ultra-crisp and irresistible.
How do I prevent the tots from falling apart?
The key is to squeeze out as much moisture from the squash as possible and ensure your egg and crumbs are well mixed in. If the mixture still feels too loose, add a touch more breadcrumbs or cheese until it holds together easily.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to sneak more veggies into your meals or just want a fun new twist on a classic snack, Yellow Squash Tots are sure to win you over. They’re easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—perfect for family dinners, snack time, or entertaining friends. Give these a try and watch them disappear faster than you can bake another batch!
Print
Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 tots
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Yellow Squash Tots are a healthy and delicious twist on traditional tater tots. Made with grated yellow squash, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs, these crispy tots are perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Grated Yellow Squash:
2 cups
Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Onion, finely chopped:
1/4 cup
Cheddar Cheese, shredded:
1/3 cup
Breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free):
1/3 cup
Egg:
1 large
Garlic Powder:
1/4 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil (for baking):
as needed
Instructions
- Prepare Squash: Place grated squash in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture using a kitchen towel.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine squash, onion, cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Grease lightly.
- Shape Tots: Scoop mixture into tot-like shapes and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Great for kids and picky eaters.
- Air-fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Pair with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 tots
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
