Looking for a snack that’s as comforting as classic tater tots, but fresher and lighter? Meet your new obsession: Yellow Squash Tots! These golden little bites deliver the best of both worlds—crispy edges, tender insides, and a subtle sweetness from summer squash that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re sneaking in more veggies for picky eaters or hunting for a fun party snack, this recipe is about to earn a permanent spot in your rotation. Spoiler alert: one batch is never enough!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how just a handful of pantry staples and fresh yellow squash come together to form something so crave-worthy. Each ingredient brings its own magic, from cheesy richness to irresistible crunch, making every tot flavorful inside and out.
- Yellow squash: The star of the show brings a gentle sweetness and gorgeous golden color while keeping the tots light and moist.
- Salt: Helps draw out excess moisture from the squash for perfectly crisp tots and heightens every flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Holds everything together and adds a classic tot-like bite—go gluten-free if needed!
- Parmesan cheese: Delivers savory depth, a boost of umami, and helps the outsides brown up beautifully.
- Egg: The binder that makes these tots tender without falling apart; don’t skip it!
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle, savory flavor that makes each bite truly addictive.
- Onion powder: Another subtle layer of flavor, bringing balance and a hint of “all-day snacking” nostalgia.
- Black pepper: Just enough warmth to complement the squash and cheese.
- Olive oil spray: A fine mist ensures a golden, crispy finish without greasiness.
How to Make Yellow Squash Tots
Step 1: Prep the Squash
Start by grating your yellow squash using the large holes of a box grater. This not only gives the tots that perfect texture, but it also means even cooking. Sprinkle the grated squash with salt, then let it rest in a clean kitchen towel for about 10 minutes—this step draws out excess water and is key for crispy tots.
Step 2: Squeeze and Drain
Once your squash has relaxed a bit, wrap it up tightly in the towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Don’t be shy! The drier your squash, the better your Yellow Squash Tots will hold together and brown up during baking.
Step 3: Mix It Up
In a large bowl, combine your well-drained squash with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture just comes together—it’ll look a little crumbly at first, but once you shape a test ball, you’ll see the magic.
Step 4: Shape the Tots
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture at a time and use your hands to shape each one into a cute little tot. Line them up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of breathing room between each so they can crisp up all around.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Give the tots a quick spritz with olive oil spray, then slide them into a preheated 400°F oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re gorgeously golden and crispy on the outside. For next-level crunch, pop them under the broiler for the final 2–3 minutes.
How to Serve Yellow Squash Tots
Garnishes
Yellow Squash Tots are delicious right out of the oven, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs—think chopped parsley or chives—can add a pop of color and a fresh bite. A dusting of extra Parmesan or a little smoked paprika makes them look (and taste!) extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair these tots with a simple garden salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even alongside grilled sandwiches for a kid-approved dinner. They also fit beautifully as a nibble at brunch, especially with eggs and fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Heap Yellow Squash Tots in a cone of parchment paper for picnic-perfect snacking, or serve them in cute ramekins with a variety of dipping sauces. For a playful twist, skewer them alongside cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls for a fun party platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store Yellow Squash Tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They stay delicious, and a quick reheat brings back their delightful crunch.
Freezing
Yellow Squash Tots freeze beautifully, whether raw or cooked. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, you can bake them straight from frozen for a quick, homemade snack anytime.
Reheating
For the crispest results, reheat leftover tots in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until heated through and crisp—usually about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can soften the texture.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works well in place of yellow squash in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly earthier, and the tots may be a bit greener, but the process remains the same. Just be sure to drain the moisture thoroughly, whichever squash you choose.
Are Yellow Squash Tots gluten-free?
They certainly can be! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check the Parmesan for gluten-free status. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy switch.
Can I fry these instead of baking?
While baking keeps the tots lighter and easier to whip up, you can shallow fry the formed tots in a bit of oil over medium heat until golden and crisp on all sides. Just watch closely, as they brown quickly!
What dipping sauces go best with Yellow Squash Tots?
The classics shine here—think ketchup, ranch, or your favorite aioli. For a twist, try a tangy yogurt dip with fresh herbs, sriracha mayo, or even a smoky chipotle sauce. The mild flavor of the tots makes them a canvas for all your favorite dippers!
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the squash mixture, shape the tots, and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. That makes meal planning a breeze, whether you’re hosting a party or packing school lunches.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this homemade batch of Yellow Squash Tots, you’ll never look at store-bought tater tots the same way again! They’re a fun, flavorful, and clever way to celebrate summer squash at its best. Don’t be surprised if these become a staple on your snack table or in your lunchboxes—enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Print
Yellow Squash Tots Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Yellow Squash Tots are a tasty and healthy twist on traditional tater tots. Made with grated yellow squash and flavorful seasonings, these tots are baked to crispy perfection. Perfect as a snack or side dish!
Ingredients
Grated Yellow Squash:
2 cups (about 2 medium squash)
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon
Breadcrumbs:
1/3 cup (regular or gluten-free)
Grated Parmesan Cheese:
1/4 cup
Egg:
1 large
Garlic Powder:
1/2 teaspoon
Onion Powder:
1/4 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Olive Oil Spray:
for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Squash: Place the grated squash in a clean kitchen towel, sprinkle with salt, let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine squash, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the Tots: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture, shape into tots, and place on baking sheet.
- Bake: Lightly spray tots with olive oil, bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil tots for the last 2–3 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Freeze uncooked tots for a quick snack later—bake from frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 tots
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
