Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
If you love crispy, golden bites filled with vibrant, fresh flavor, this Yellow Squash Tots Recipe is about to become your new go-to snack or side dish. These delightful tots strike the perfect balance between tender squash and a satisfyingly crunchy crust, all without resorting to heavy frying. Easy to make and absolutely addictive, these tots transform simple yellow squash into a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for anytime munching or as a clever veggie upgrade to your meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients that work wonders together. Each component is essential: from the natural moisture and mild sweetness of the squash to the crispy, cheesy coating that gives these tots their irresistible texture and flavor.
- 2 cups yellow squash, grated: The star ingredient, providing moisture and a delicate, fresh taste.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Helps draw out water from the squash and enhances all flavors.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Adds the crunch and helps bind the mixture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a savory, nutty flavor and aids in browning.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold your tots together perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Introduces a subtle, aromatic depth.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Compliments the garlic and enhances the savory profile.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional): A fresh herbaceous lift and a pop of green color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season just right.
- Cooking spray or oil for baking: Ensures a golden, crispy finish without deep frying.
How to Make Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Dry the Squash
Start by grating your yellow squash and sprinkling it with salt to help draw out excess moisture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then squeeze it thoroughly in a clean towel or cheesecloth. This step is crucial—you want to remove as much water as possible to avoid soggy tots and help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine your drained squash with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, the egg, garlic and onion powders, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated, forming a mixture that’s easy to shape but not too wet.
Step 3: Shape Your Tots
With your hands or a small scoop, form the squash mixture into little log-shaped tots. Don’t worry about getting them perfect—homemade charm counts! Place the tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving space between each so they can bake evenly and get that coveted crispy edge.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Lightly spray the tops of the tots with oil to encourage crisping as they bake. Pop them into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch as they turn golden brown and crisply hug a tender interior—this is when you know they’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Yellow Squash Tots Recipe, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. A touch of flaky sea salt over the top can also make a remarkable difference, giving every bite a little burst of seasoning.
Side Dishes
These tots are versatile and pair wonderfully with a range of dishes. Serve alongside classic favorites like grilled chicken, burgers, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. Their crispy texture and mild flavor make them a terrific veggie-based alternative to traditional fries on any plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring some fun and flair to your Yellow Squash Tots Recipe by offering an array of dipping sauces: think tangy ketchup, creamy ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a cool tzatziki. For party presentations, arrange them on a platter with colorful veggie sticks or mini sandwiches to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Yellow Squash Tots left after your feast (though that’s not very likely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor while keeping them fresh and ready to enjoy.
Freezing
Freeze any uncooked tots by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and popping them into the freezer for a few hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month and baked straight from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring the tots back to life after refrigeration or freezing, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F until they regain their golden crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy. This way, you get that freshly baked crunch every time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash in this recipe?
Absolutely! Yellow squash works beautifully here because of its mild flavor and texture, but zucchini or a mix of summer squashes can be excellent substitutes. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture using the same method.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe uses breadcrumbs, which typically contain gluten. However, you can easily substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the Yellow Squash Tots Recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make these tots vegan?
To keep this recipe vegan, you could replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and swap the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg binder, though texture might vary slightly.
What kind of dipping sauce pairs best with these tots?
They go well with almost any sauce you love! Classic ketchup, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy chipotle mayo all enhance the subtle flavors and crispy texture of these tots.
How long do these tots take to bake?
The tots bake for around 18 to 22 minutes at 400°F, with a flip halfway through to ensure even crisping on both sides. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbrown.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and satisfying about homemade Yellow Squash Tots Recipe—crispy edges, tender centers, and a fresh veggie goodness that’s tough to beat. Whether you’re sneaking in extra veggies for the kids or entertaining friends, these tots deliver in flavor, ease, and fun. Give them a try soon and get ready to fall in love with a new tasty classic!
Print
Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy and flavorful Yellow Squash Tots are a healthy, delicious snack or side dish perfect for any meal. Made with fresh grated yellow squash, Parmesan cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, they bake up golden and crisp without the need for frying. Easy to prepare and kid-friendly, these tots make a great way to enjoy vegetables with a tasty twist.
Ingredients
Squash Tot Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray or grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Drain Squash: Place the grated yellow squash in a clean towel or cheesecloth, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible to avoid soggy tots.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped parsley (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated, forming a sticky mixture.
- Form Tots: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into small tot-shaped logs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the tots with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil to promote crisping during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through the baking time. Bake until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated squash to ensure crisp tots.
- Using panko breadcrumbs helps achieve a crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Parsley is optional but adds a fresh flavor and color boost.
- These tots can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, especially for kids who might not typically enjoy vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
