Yellow Squash Crispy Tots Recipe

Introduction

Yellow squash crispy tots are a delightful twist on traditional tater tots, offering a fresh and tasty way to enjoy summer squash. These golden bites are crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfect as a snack or side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 medium yellow squash, grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Grate the yellow squash using a standard grater.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated squash, panko breadcrumbs, lightly beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Shape the mixture into small tot shapes, each about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Step 5: Lightly brush each tot with olive oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and tender.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, let the grated squash drain in a clean towel to remove excess moisture before mixing.
• Try adding grated Parmesan or your favorite herbs to the mix for added flavor.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or summer squash. Grate and drain well to avoid excess moisture.

Can these tots be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped tots before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Yellow Squash Crispy Tots Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 79 reviews

These Yellow Squash Crispy Tots are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish featuring grated yellow squash mixed with panko breadcrumbs and seasoned with garlic, salt, and black pepper. Baked to a perfect golden crisp, they offer a delightful combination of tenderness inside and crispy edges outside, making them a great vegetarian option for any meal.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 to 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 to 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 tots 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Squash Mixture

• 2 medium yellow squash, grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Grate squash: Use a standard grater to grate the yellow squash evenly, which will form the base texture of the tots.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the grated squash, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Shape tots: Form the mixture into small, approximately 1-inch diameter tot shapes, handling gently so they hold together but aren’t compacted too tightly.
5. Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush each tot with olive oil to help achieve a crispy exterior during baking.
6. Bake: Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they are golden brown and tender inside.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Make sure to squeeze excess moisture out of the grated squash with a clean kitchen towel to avoid soggy tots.
• For extra crispiness, you can turn the tots halfway through the baking time.
• These tots can be served with a dipping sauce such as ranch, ketchup, or a garlic aioli.
• If you want to make these gluten-free, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Leftover tots can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or air fryer for best texture retention.

Keywords: yellow squash tots, crispy squash tots, baked squash recipe, vegetarian snack, healthy side dish