Name: Crispy Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots That Kids Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Zucchini (Squeeze out excess moisture to avoid mushy tots); 2 cups Sweet Potato (Cold mashed for the best results); 1/2 cup Coconut Flour (Can be substituted with all-purpose or almond flour)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of something delicious wafted through the air, bringing a sense of comfort and excitement. Today, I’m sharing a gem that’s become a staple in our home: Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots. With just three key ingredients, these healthy delights are not only quick to whip up but also cater to a variety of dietary needs—they’re paleo, vegan, and nut-free! Imagine a crispy exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful bite—perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you serve them as a snack or a side dish, they bring a fun, nutritious twist to mealtime. Ready to make the most mouthwatering veggie tots you’ve ever tried? Let’s dive in!

Why are These Tots a Game Changer?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just three key ingredients—zucchini, sweet potatoes, and coconut flour—these baked sweet potato zucchini tots are a breeze to make.

Crispy and Delicious: The perfect balance of a golden crispy outside and a soft, tasty interior will have everyone asking for seconds!

Kid-Friendly Fun: Not only are they nutritious, but their fun shape makes them a hit with kids, making mealtime an enjoyable experience.

Versatile Options: Feel free to adapt the recipe to your taste; add spices like garlic powder or make them cheesy for a different twist!

Meal Preparation Bliss: They freeze wonderfully, making them ideal for make-ahead meals—just bake, cool, and store for a quick snack anytime.

These delightful veggie tots are sure to become a family favorite! Try pairing them with homemade dipping sauces for a delightful snack, just like our Cinnamon Sweet Potato and Zucchini Chips Guilt recipes for added variety.

Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Ingredients

For the Tots

Zucchini – Adds moisture and vital nutrients; remember to squeeze out excess water to avoid mushy tots!
Sweet Potato – Provides natural sweetness and a creamy texture; cold mashed sweet potatoes yield the best results.
Coconut Flour – Acts as a binding agent, enhancing texture; can be substituted with all-purpose flour or almond flour if needed.

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

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
Begin by grating the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure your sweet potato zucchini tots don’t turn out mushy. Set the grated zucchini aside to air dry while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with cold mashed sweet potatoes and coconut flour. Using a fork or your hands, mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and a moist dough forms. The mixture should hold together well; if it feels too wet, consider adding a little more coconut flour. Set this mixture aside as you prepare to shape your tots.

Step 3: Form Tots
Preheat your oven to 350°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized nuggets, resembling traditional tater tots, placing them on the lined sheet. Leave a little space between each tot to allow for even baking and a crispy exterior.

Step 4: Bake
Once your sweet potato zucchini tots are shaped and arranged on the baking sheet, place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. Look for a lovely golden color on the outside and a firm texture; this means they are ready to be enjoyed.

Step 5: Serve
After baking, allow the sweet potato zucchini tots to cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period enhances their texture and flavor. Serve warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup or mustard, to make this dish even more delightful and kid-friendly.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Fridge: Store baked sweet potato zucchini tots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: These tots freeze beautifully! After baking, cool completely and place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy from frozen, bake at 350°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. A great snack or side dish ready in no time!

Meal Prep Tip: Consider batch cooking these veggie tots for quick meal options throughout the week!

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Moisture Control: Squeeze the grated zucchini thoroughly to avoid soggy tots; moisture is the enemy of crispiness and flavor.
Cold Sweet Potatoes: Use cold mashed sweet potatoes for the best texture; warm potatoes can lead to a mixture that’s too wet, losing structural integrity.
Crispy Finish: For an extra crispy outer layer, air fry the sweet potato zucchini tots instead, adjusting bake times as needed.
Right Mixture Consistency: If your mixture feels too loose, add a bit more coconut flour to help bind the ingredients together for perfect shaping.

What to Serve with Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots

Imagine a cozy gathering around the dinner table where colors, textures, and flavors come together, creating a meal that’s as delightful as it is nutritious.

Creamy Avocado Dip: A luscious, creamy avocado dip adds a rich, buttery note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tots. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially when served chilled!
Tangy Ketchup: A classic choice, tangy ketchup provides a familiar flavor burst, making each bite of sweet potato zucchini tots irresistibly delightful for children and adults alike.
Crunchy Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette creates a refreshing contrast, balancing the warm, comforting texture of the baked tots.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers can elevate the meal, bringing out the natural sweetness while adding vibrant colors to your plate. These veggies not only taste fantastic but also provide added nutrients.
Savory Hummus: A smooth chickpea hummus offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully, inviting you to dip those tots for a delightful snack experience. Perfect for adding a protein punch!
Fruit Salsa: An unexpected yet delightful pairing, consider serving a light fruit salsa made with diced mango or pineapple. The sweetness brings a tropical flair to your meal, captivating kids and adults alike.
Crisp Green Beans: Bright and crunchy green beans sautéed with a hint of garlic make for a nutritious side that lends freshness and a pop of color alongside your sweet potato zucchini tots.
Sparkling Lemonade: To wash it all down, a glass of sparkling lemonade adds a refreshing zing, making the entire meal feel festive and special!

These pairings transform your baked sweet potato zucchini tots into a wholesome feast that will have everyone asking for more.

Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your delicious sweet potato zucchini tots to match your family’s taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute coconut flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for a great gluten-free option.
These swaps keep the texture delightful while ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix for a fiery touch!
A touch of heat can make these tots incredibly exciting for adults, while still appealing to the kids.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for a burst of fresh flavor.
Each bite will be filled with a delightful herbaceous note that elevates the taste profile beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: For a non-vegan twist, fold in your favorite shredded cheese – mozzarella or cheddar works wonders!
Cheese adds a rich flavor and creamy texture, making these tots even more irresistible.
Veggie Packed: Amp up the nutrition by adding grated carrots or spinach to the mix for added color and flavor.
Sneaking in extra veggies while keeping things delicious? It’s a win-win for everyone at the table!
Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some lemon or lime juice for a zesty kick that brightens the flavors!
The citrus notes can elevate the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sweet potatoes.
Baked & Fried Combo: If you crave extra crunch, bake the tots first, then pan-fry them in a little olive oil just before serving.
A quick sear can add an enticing crunch while keeping the insides soft and flavorful.
Dipping Sauces Galore: Pair your tots with an array of dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or homemade salsa for variety.
Dipping adds an element of fun, letting each person customize their culinary experience just the way they like!

Feel free to explore these variations to make your sweet potato zucchini tots even more irresistible! And if you’re looking for delightful sides, you might want to check out our Muffin Pan Potato or Cheesy Mashed Potato recipes to round out your meal perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture of grated zucchini, cold mashed sweet potatoes, and coconut flour up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial prep steps and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can form the tots and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, ensuring they’re baked to golden perfection. This way, you’ll have delicious, healthy snacks ready to enjoy in no time, even on your busiest days!

Sweet Potato Zucchini Tots Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe zucchini?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for ones that are firm and glossy, about 6 to 8 inches long. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as this can indicate overripeness. A medium-sized zucchini usually has the best flavor and moisture.

How should I store leftover sweet potato zucchini tots?
You can keep your baked sweet potato zucchini tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave until they’re nice and warm again. They make a perfect snack or side dish for quick meals!

Can I freeze these veggie tots?
Yes, they freeze wonderfully! After baking, allow the sweet potato zucchini tots to cool completely. Then, pop them into a freezer bag and store them flat in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 350°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.

What if the mixture feels too wet when I’m preparing the tots?
If you find that your mixture is too wet, don’t worry! Simply add a little more coconut flour to help absorb the moisture. Start with one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough holds together well for shaping.

Are these tots suitable for kids with allergies?
Yes! These sweet potato zucchini tots are nut-free and can be made vegan, making them a suitable option for many dietary needs. However, always check labels on coconut flour and any additional spices you may want to include, as some brands might process their products in facilities that handle allergens.

How can I ensure my sweet potato zucchini tots stay crispy?
To achieve the crispiest texture, make sure to squeeze all the moisture out of the zucchini before mixing. Also, using cold mashed sweet potatoes helps maintain structure. You can even air fry them for an extra crispy finish—just remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly!