Name: Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Your Family Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups zucchini (squeezed to remove excess moisture); 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (should be cooled); 1/4 cup coconut flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour)

In the quest for healthier snacks, I stumbled upon a delightful twist on comfort food: Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots. With the perfect mix of crispy exterior and a tender interior, these vibrant little morsels not only please the palate but also sneak in some nutritious goodness—a real triumph for parents dealing with picky eaters. Made with just three ingredients, they’re easy to whip up, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights. Plus, they fit seamlessly into any dietary needs, being both vegan and nut-free. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free side dish or a fun, healthy snack, these tots are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, are you ready to transform your snack game and impress your family?

Why Are You Going to Love These Tots?

Easy Preparation: Just three ingredients make this recipe a breeze, meaning you can whip up a healthy snack in no time!

Nutritious Delight: Packed with sweet potatoes and zucchini, these tots are a fantastic way to sneak in veggies for kids.

Versatile Flavor: Feel free to experiment! Add garlic powder or even cheese for an irresistible twist that everyone will love.

Snack-Friendly: Perfect for lunch boxes or as an appetizer, they’re sure to brighten up any meal. For more delicious ideas, check out my Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs for another family-friendly recipe!

Crowd Pleaser: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’ve got the texture everyone appreciates—making them a hit at gatherings!

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Ingredients

For the Tots
• Zucchini – Adds moisture and flavor; squeeze out excess water to prevent sogginess.
• Sweet Potatoes (mashed) – Provides sweetness and structure; ensure they are cold before mixing.
• Coconut Flour – Acts as a binding agent; can substitute with all-purpose flour if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by grating the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to avoid sogginess in your Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots. Meanwhile, mash and cool your sweet potatoes until they are at room temperature for the best mixing results.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, mashed sweet potatoes, and coconut flour. Use a fork or your hands to blend the mixture until it forms a consistent and slightly sticky dough. This mixture should be cohesive enough to hold its shape when formed into tots. Take a moment to enjoy the vibrant colors as they blend together.

Step 3: Shape Tots
With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into cylindrical shapes, resembling traditional tater tots. Place each shaped tot on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Aim for around 12-15 tots depending on the size you create, making sure they are uniform for even baking.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) while shaping the tots. Once ready, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, flip them for a golden-brown crisp on both sides. They should be golden and slightly firm to the touch when fully baked.

Step 5: Serve
Once baked, remove the sweet potato zucchini tots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This allows them to firm up slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup or mustard, and enjoy the delightful, healthy snack that your family is sure to love!

What to Serve with Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Imagine a delightful meal that perfectly balances crispy, tender, and fresh elements, elevating your snacking experience to new heights.

Crispy Kale Chips: These add a salty crunch that complements the softness of the tots, making for a fun contrast.
Creamy Avocado Dip: Lush and creamy, it brings a zesty freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory sweetness of the tots.
Classic Tomato Salsa: The acidity and vibrant flavors in salsa cut through the richness of the recipe, creating a refreshing balance.
Garlic Herb Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad adds protein and texture, enhancing the wholesome goodness of the baked sweet potato zucchini tots.
Sweet and Spicy Dipping Sauce: A blend of sweetness and heat enhances the flavors, perfect for adventurous palates looking for excitement!
Minty Yogurt Sauce: Fresh and tangy, this sauce lightens the dish and brings a cooling element, making it a delightful pairing.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing crunch that beautifully complements the crispy tots.
Light Lemonade or Herbal Iced Tea: Both drinks provide a refreshing contrast, washing down the savory elements while adding a touch of brightness to the meal.

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Variations

Feel free to get creative with your baked sweet potato zucchini tots—there are so many delicious twists to explore!

All-Purpose Flour: Swap coconut flour for all-purpose flour for a different texture. It adds a classic taste that so many people love.
Oat Flour: Use oat flour instead of coconut flour for a gluten-free option that provides a slightly nutty flavor, elevating the taste experience.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some cheese if you’re not keeping it vegan. A handful of shredded cheddar or nutritional yeast can add a delightful savory touch that your kids will crave.
Garlic Powder: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the mixture for a mouthwatering aromatic twist. The savory flavor will have everyone begging for more!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. This fiery version will surely ignite your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for an extra layer of flavor and freshness that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
Sweet Twist: For a fun dessert version, mix in some cinnamon and a dash of maple syrup. Making a sweet snack has never been so easy or healthier!
Zucchini Varieties: Experiment with different types of zucchini or even yellow squash for a colorful variation that also adds unique flavors to your tots. Embrace the rainbow on your plate!

Explore these variations to keep your baking adventures exciting! For more delicious ideas, try my Mashed Potato Cheese for a unique treat that combines creamy comfort with crispy satisfaction!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Fridge: Keep the baked sweet potato zucchini tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Freezer: After baking, let the tots cool completely before placing them in a ziplock bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, making for a quick snack any time!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen tots at 350°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy, ensuring a delightful texture each time.

Room Temperature: If serving immediately, allow to sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours; however, it’s best to store them appropriately for optimal taste and safety.

Expert Tips for Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Drain Well: Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. This prevents sogginess and guarantees crispy Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots.
Cool Sweet Potatoes: Using cold mashed sweet potatoes helps maintain the right texture. Warm potatoes can lead to a dough that’s too wet.
Uniform Sizing: Shape your tots to be uniform in size; this ensures even baking and consistent crispiness across the batch.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add ingredients like garlic powder, or nutritional yeast for an extra flavor boost while keeping them tasty and healthy.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an added crunch, consider broiling the tots for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just follow the initial steps of grating and squeezing the zucchini and mashing the sweet potatoes. Combine the ingredients, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply shape the tots and bake them for that crispy finish. For even longer storage, you can shape and freeze the uncooked tots for up to 3 months—just bake from frozen for around 30-35 minutes at 350°F (180°C). This way, you’ll have a delicious, healthy snack ready to go anytime!

Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Recipe FAQs

What type of zucchini should I use for the tots?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture content, choose medium-sized zucchini. Look for ones that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. If zucchini is excessively large or has seeds, it may be too watery; smaller, younger zucchinis tend to work best.

How should I store leftover Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and helps prevent them from drying out. If you’re planning to eat them later, you can pop them into the freezer for longer shelf life.

Can I freeze the tots after baking?
Yes, very! Once they are thoroughly baked, let the Tots cool completely. Then, place them in a ziplock bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 350°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated and crispy.

What if my mixture is too wet?
This can happen if the zucchini wasn’t drained properly or the sweet potatoes were warm. If you find your mixture too wet, you can add an extra tablespoon of coconut flour to help bind it together. Alternatively, let it rest for a few minutes; this can sometimes help the flour absorb more moisture.

Are these tots suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are vegan and nut-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs. However, they do contain coconut flour, so be mindful of any coconut allergies. You can easily substitute the flour for a gluten-free option or regular all-purpose flour, depending on your preferences.

How do I ensure my tots bake evenly?
To achieve perfectly cooked tots, make sure they’re all uniform in size—this ensures even baking. Also, space them apart on the baking sheet before placing them in the oven. Flipping them halfway through the baking process is essential for that golden-brown crispiness on both sides. Enjoy your cooking!