Name: Air Fryer Zucchini Tots Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 medium zucchinis; 2 large eggs; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (can sub GF); 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp garlic powder; Kosher salt & black pepper to taste; Cooking spray

If you’re looking for a fun, healthy snack that packs big flavor with minimal fuss, Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are about to become your go-to! These golden, cheesy bites are made with just four key ingredients, but the end result is shockingly addictive. Whether you serve them as a playful side, a lunchbox surprise, or a crowd-pleasing nibble, these are always the first thing to disappear at any gathering. Crispy on the outside, tender within, and loaded with cheesy, herby goodness, Air Fryer Zucchini Tots are perfect for both little and grown-up hands alike!

Air Fryer Zucchini Tots Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is how a short, simple list of staple ingredients transforms into something craveable! Each element brings crucial taste and texture—don’t be tempted to skip or swap too much if you want that classic, satisfying tot vibe.

Zucchini: The star of the show; grated and squeezed dry for the best soft-yet-crispy texture.
Eggs: Bind everything together so the tots hold their shape without crumbling.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Give a light, crisp crunch you just can’t get from standard breadcrumbs; gluten-free works too!
Cheddar Cheese: Brings oozy, sharp flavor and helps brown the tots to perfection.
Italian Seasoning: Adds herby notes that make every bite feel extra special.
Onion Powder: Bumps up the savory warmth without the sharpness of fresh onion.
Garlic Powder: For that mild, aromatic kick—trust me, it makes a difference!
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing every other flavor. Taste and adjust as you go!
Cooking Spray: A quick spritz ensures your Air Fryer Zucchini Tots get that irresistible golden crust with less oil.

How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Grate and Drain the Zucchini

Start by grabbing your box grater and run the zucchini across the largest holes. The real trick for perfect tots is wringing out every bit of extra liquid! Lay your shredded zucchini in a tea towel, wrap it up, and squeeze until it feels almost dry—you want two tightly packed cups. Skipping this step can make the tots soggy, which nobody wants!

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Crack your eggs into a large mixing bowl and give them a quick beat. Then, toss in your wrung-out zucchini, panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grab your spatula and mix everything just until it comes together—it should look like a vibrant, textured dough full of green, gold, and flecks of herbs.

Step 3: Shape the Tots

Using a 1-tablespoon scoop (or just a regular spoon), scoop the mixture into your hands and squeeze it gently, then roll into classic tot shapes. Each should be about one and a half to two inches long. Lining them up on a parchment-lined air fryer tray not only keeps them from sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Give your tots a light spray of cooking oil to help them crisp up. Pop them into your air fryer at 400F for about 15 minutes, peeking in now and then for that deep golden color. Every air fryer is a little different, so your first batch is a good experiment—you’re aiming for nicely browned, crispy shells and a fragrance that reminds you of your favorite cheesy snacks.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the tots cool for a minute or two, then serve them up warm. They’re absolutely delicious as-is, but a little side of ketchup (or your favorite dipping sauce) takes things to the next level!

How to Serve Air Fryer Zucchini Tots

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes bring a pop of color and extra flavor to your plate of Air Fryer Zucchini Tots! Sprinkle a shower of chopped chives, freshly cracked black pepper, or even a whisper of extra cheddar over the top the moment they come out of the air fryer for maximum impact.

Side Dishes

These tots are super versatile—serve them alongside burgers, sandwiches, or grilled chicken for a fun swap from French fries. They also make a killer partner to a bowl of tomato soup or a big, bright salad for a light lunch or dinner that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Air Fryer Zucchini Tots for a party, try stacking them up like building blocks on a board, nestling them into parchment cones, or arranging them in a ring around a bowl of dip for a snackable, shareable appetizer that everyone will be excited to grab.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Air Fryer Zucchini Tots can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re lucky enough to have any survive until the next day, they’re just as good the second time around, especially when reheated for a few minutes to bring back that crispy edge.

Freezing

Freeze cooled tots in a single layer on a baking sheet first (so they don’t stick together), then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month—just label the bag so you’re ready for your next snack attack!

Reheating

To bring that fresh-cooked magic back, pop your tots directly from the fridge (or freezer) into the air fryer for a few minutes at 350F. They’ll crisp up beautifully without getting tough or dried out—way better than the microwave!

FAQs

Can I make Air Fryer Zucchini Tots gluten free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free panko or any gluten-free breadcrumbs. The result is just as crispy and flavorful, and no one will know the difference.

Why do I need to squeeze the zucchini dry?

The moisture in zucchini can make your tots mushy rather than crispy. Squeezing out the water ensures your Air Fryer Zucchini Tots cook up with that addictive, snappy crust every time.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic here, but you can definitely experiment—try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend for a different flavor spin. Aim for cheeses that melt well for best results.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Absolutely, you can bake them! Place on a lined baking sheet at 425F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, though they won’t get quite as crispy as in the air fryer. Still tasty and totally worth making!

How do I keep the tots from sticking?

Parchment paper and a light coat of cooking spray do the trick—don’t be shy! If you need to cook in batches, clean the tray and re-spray between rounds for fuss-free cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet tried Air Fryer Zucchini Tots, I promise you’re in for a treat. They’re quick, wholesome, and endlessly snackable—one of those recipes you’ll soon know by heart. Give them a whirl and watch them disappear from the plate. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!