These Baked Yellow Squash Tots are a healthy, crispy alternative to fries—made with grated squash, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. Paired with a fresh and tangy Greek Yogurt Herb Dip , they make a delicious snack, side dish, or even a light lunch the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy & Crispy: Baked instead of fried, these tots are full of flavor without the grease.
- Great Way to Use Zucchini or Squash: A perfect way to enjoy summer squash any time of year.
- Perfect Pairing: The cool, herby dip balances the warm, cheesy tots beautifully.
Ingredients (Makes about 20–24 tots):
For the Squash Tots:
- 3 small yellow squash (about 1–1.5 lbs), grated
- 1 large egg
- 4 oz grated cheddar cheese (about ½ cup)
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus extra for drawing out moisture)
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons to ¼ cup finely minced parsley
For the Greek Yogurt Herb Dip:
- ⅓ cup unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon finely minced parsley or dill
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove minced garlic)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Grate and Salt the Squash
Using the coarse side of a box grater, grate the yellow squash.
Place the grated squash in a bowl and toss with ½ teaspoon salt . Transfer to a colander and let sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Step 3: Squeeze Out Liquid
Transfer the squash to a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or several layers of paper towels.
Squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy tots and avoiding sogginess.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated squash, egg , cheddar cheese , breadcrumbs , chopped onion , garlic powder , salt , pepper , and parsley (if using).
Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time, until it firms up.
Step 5: Shape the Tots
With slightly damp hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small cylinders or oval nuggets, using about 1.5–2 tablespoons per tot.
Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 25–30 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, you can also cook these in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes , flipping once halfway through.
How to Make the Greek Yogurt Herb Dip:
While the tots are baking, prepare the dip.
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt , lemon juice , minced garlic , parsley or dill , salt , and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
This light and tangy dip perfectly complements the richness of the cheese and breadcrumbs.
Tips for Success:
- Moisture is Key: Don’t skip wringing out the squash—it’s the secret to crispy tots!
- Make Ahead: The tots can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.
- Customize: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Parmesan, or add other veggies like carrots or corn.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4–5 tots + 1 tbsp dip, serves 4–6):
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~1g
These Baked Yellow Squash Tots with Greek Yogurt Herb Dip are a wholesome, flavorful twist on classic tots. They’re kid-approved, veggie-packed, and perfect for turning simple ingredients into something special.
Serve them as a snack, side, or appetizer—you won’t be able to stop at just one!
