Yellow Squash Tots are an irresistible snack or side that no one can resist—crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and brimming with cheesy, savory flavors! These veggie-packed bites are a creative way to use up summer squash and get both kids and adults smitten with vegetables. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or slipping them beside your favorite main dish, Yellow Squash Tots add color, nutrition, and so much fun to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Yellow Squash Tots lies in their simplicity. Every ingredient plays an important role, giving you maximum flavor and texture without fuss. Here’s how each one shines in the final bite:
- Grated yellow squash (2 cups): The sweet, mild flavor and tender texture make squash the star; be sure to squeeze out the excess moisture for the best results.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the squash and drawing out water to keep your tots crisp, not soggy.
- Finely chopped onion (1/3 cup): Adds a subtle, savory bite that balances the sweetness of the squash and cheese.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Helps bind everything together while creating that coveted golden crunch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Melty, sharp, and flavorful—cheddar adds richness and beautiful color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Provides a nutty, salty kick and enhances the crisp edges.
- Large egg, beaten (1): Acts as the binder to hold the tots together, ensuring perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of garlic rounds out the flavors for savory depth.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Brings just the right amount of gentle heat to each tot.
- Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing: Prevents sticking and helps the tots crisp up beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Yellow Squash Tots
Step 1: Prep and Drain the Squash
Start by grating your yellow squash—two medium squash should give you about two cups. Sprinkle the grated squash with salt and let it rest in a colander for 10 to 15 minutes. This simple trick is key! The salt will pull out extra moisture, so your tots bake up crispy, not soggy. When time’s up, wrap the squash in a clean kitchen cloth or a few sturdy paper towels and squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Don’t be shy! The drier the squash, the better the tots will hold together and brown.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Toss your well-drained squash into a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, and black pepper. Give everything a thorough mix until there are no dry spots left and the mixture holds together when pressed. The mixture should be moist but not wet—a satisfying texture that will make shaping the tots a breeze.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup. Using a tablespoon (a cookie scoop works wonders here), portion out the mix and shape it into small, oval nuggets with your hands. Arrange the tots on your baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one for even browning.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Spritz or brush the tops of your tots lightly with cooking spray or olive oil. Pop them into the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping every tot halfway through so both sides get beautifully crisp and golden. Once they’re firm and gorgeously browned, let the tots cool for just a few minutes. This will help them hold their shape—and save your fingertips from the fresh-from-the-oven heat!
How to Serve Yellow Squash Tots
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives goes a long way, adding both a pop of color and a fresh note that pairs perfectly with the cheesy, savory goodness of Yellow Squash Tots. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light dusting of extra Parmesan on top takes everything up a notch. For those who love a little zing, a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes is always welcome.
Side Dishes
Yellow Squash Tots are surprisingly versatile! Serve them alongside classic burger night, offer them as a healthier swap for fries next to grilled chicken, or tuck them into a lunchbox with a crisp apple and a dollop of ranch or ketchup for dipping. They also shine when paired with salads or hearty soups for a satisfying, veggie-forward meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Yellow Squash Tots high on a platter for a family-style snack attack, or thread a few onto skewers for an eye-catching appetizer at your next gathering. For a playful spin, tuck them into lettuce wraps or mini pita pockets with a swipe of Greek yogurt and fresh herbs—suddenly, veggie tots steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once they’ve cooled, transfer any leftover Yellow Squash Tots to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to four days—ready to grab for easy snacks or speedy side dishes. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture buildup.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange your cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them into the freezer until solid. After that, you can store them in a freezer bag or container for up to three months. Having a stash of Yellow Squash Tots on hand means there’s always a wholesome treat just moments away!
Reheating
For best texture, reheat Yellow Squash Tots in a hot oven or air fryer at 375°F until warmed through and crispy again—about 8 to 10 minutes should do the trick. The microwave works for speed, but the tots may lose some of their signature crunch, so use oven or air fryer for maximum enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works just as well as yellow squash—just be sure to salt and drain it thoroughly, since zucchini tends to have even more water content. Otherwise, follow the recipe exactly for delicious veggie tots.
What dipping sauces go well with Yellow Squash Tots?
Classic ketchup and creamy ranch are always winners, but try sriracha mayo, honey mustard, tzatziki, or even marinara sauce for a fun twist. The mild flavor of the tots pairs beautifully with all sorts of dips.
Are Yellow Squash Tots gluten-free?
The standard recipe uses traditional breadcrumbs, but you can definitely make these gluten-free with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice cereal. Everything else in the tots is naturally gluten-free.
Can I air fry Yellow Squash Tots instead of baking?
Yes, you can! Arrange the tots in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They come out even crispier and cook a little faster—perfect for busy weeknights.
How do I keep my tots from falling apart?
The key is to squeeze out as much liquid from the squash as possible before mixing. If your tots still seem a bit loose, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together. Chilling the mixture for 10–15 minutes before shaping can also help them keep their structure.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about homemade Yellow Squash Tots—cheesy, crispy, golden perfection in every bite! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just looking for a fun new way to enjoy seasonal produce, this recipe will win hearts. Give it a try and you’ll find yourself making it on repeat all summer long!
Print
Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 tots
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Yellow Squash Tots are a delightful twist on traditional tater tots, packed with the goodness of yellow squash, cheeses, and seasonings. They make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion, offering a crispy exterior with a moist and flavorful interior.
Ingredients
Grated Yellow Squash:
- 2 cups grated yellow squash (about 2 medium squash)
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the Yellow Squash: Place grated yellow squash in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit to release moisture for 10–15 minutes. Squeeze out excess liquid.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine squash, onion, breadcrumbs, cheddar, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Shape Tots: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Form tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture into small tots.
- Bake: Place tots on a greased/lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
- These tots freeze well; bake, cool, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *