These cheesy zucchini tots are a playful way to get the family eating veggies with a smile. Easy to make and perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce.
Today’s post features a special little helper who’s excited to join the Kids in the Kitchen celebration this month.
Cheesy Zucchini Tots: The way to a kid’s (and adult’s) heart
Meet Sam. He was thrilled to take part in this post—mostly because it involved one of his favorite things: eating. August is Kids Eat Right month and the focus this year is getting children involved in the kitchen. Kids who help prepare food benefit in many ways, from increased willingness to try new foods to valuable life skills.
I was the kid in the kitchen growing up. I loved helping with cooking—well, everything except cleanup—and being involved early on probably helped shape my positive attitude toward vegetables. Whether it’s genetics or experience, letting children join meal prep tends to make them more curious and open to tasting different foods.
We introduced solids to Sam on his sixth month birthday. The first week was messy and funny, but he quickly got the hang of it and now he eats a wide variety of foods. Watching him explore new tastes and textures has been a joy.
How do I get my kid in the kitchen?
When I joined a group celebrating Kids in the Kitchen, I wondered how to involve Sam. At ten months old, his idea of helping is opening cabinets and pulling everything out—but exploration is a crucial part of learning. Right now, Sam’s role in the kitchen is sensory: touching, smelling, squeezing and tasting. Those interactions build his food experiences and shape preferences.
To celebrate the campaign, I gave Sam a new food to explore while we spent time in the kitchen together. Soon he’ll be able to stir and help more directly, but for now he learns through play and sensation.
Zucchini Tots: a fun way to add veggies
These cheesy zucchini tots are ideal for early eaters because they’re easy to grasp and packed with vegetables. Zucchini often isn’t eaten raw by little ones, but hiding it in a tasty, handheld bite makes it much more appealing. A piece of raw zucchini might not go over well, but a seasoned, cheesy tot usually will.
Sam already loves a lot of vegetables—green beans and peas rank highest for him, followed by carrots and broccoli. He used to adore avocado, though his tastes shift as he grows. It’s always exciting to offer something new and see how he reacts.
I placed three tots on his tray. True to form, he squeezed one to test the texture, examined the colors, then popped one into his mouth. After a few bites he asked for more—clear proof that these tots passed the tiny taste tester’s approval.
The taste test: zucchini tots for the win
Sam’s enthusiasm confirmed these tots are a hit. If your little one loves them too, they make a great snack or side dish. As he grows, Sam will help more in the kitchen—shredding zucchini, cracking eggs and stirring—so this is just the beginning of his culinary learning.
How do you include kids in your kitchen? I’d love to hear your ideas and tips.
What to serve with these cheesy zucchini tots
- Cornmeal-crusted chicken tenders make a great finger-food combo.
- Try a flavorful turkey burger like sun-dried tomato, spinach, and feta alongside the tots.
- A classic grilled cheese pairs perfectly for a comforting meal.
- Sheet-pan chicken or anything from the grill complements these tots well.
What will you serve with them?
If you try this recipe, leave a comment and tag me on social media—I love seeing your versions of my recipes!
Cheesy Zucchini Tots
Ingredients
- 1 c zucchini, shredded and packed
- 1/3 c shredded cheddar jack cheese
- 2/3 c bread crumbs or panko, gluten free if needed
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- sea salt and pepper to taste
- pinch of crushed red pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F.
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Shred zucchini and use a cheesecloth, milk bag or thin towel to squeeze out excess liquid.
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Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix until well combined. Form into small tater-tot shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake about 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Flipping halfway is optional.
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Allow to cool for several minutes and serve as a side or snack. Makes about 18 tots.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation and should be used as a guide.
Did you enjoy this recipe? Have a question?Leave a comment below!
