There’s something magical about a warm summer afternoon when the garden is in full bloom and yellow squash is spilling out of your harvest basket. It’s that time of year when fresh produce is at its peak, and the challenge becomes finding delicious, creative ways to enjoy it all. That’s exactly how these Yellow Squash Tots came to life—a twist on the classic potato tot that’s lighter, more colorful, and just as comforting.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, prepping snacks for a picnic, or simply craving a crunchy treat with your lunch, these tots are a perfect fit. They’re golden, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Better yet? They’re baked, not fried—though we’ll share both options below. Inspired by the abundance of summer squash and the nostalgia of childhood comfort food, this recipe is a beautiful blend of seasonal eating and classic flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Yellow Squash Tots

If you’re new to cooking with squash or looking for a fun way to sneak more vegetables into your meals, this recipe is for you. Here are just a few reasons why readers love it:

✅ Kid-friendly and perfect for picky eaters
✅ Uses fresh, simple ingredients
✅ Baked for a healthier alternative (with a frying option too!)
✅ Freezer-friendly for meal prepping
✅ Customizable with spices, herbs, or even protein add-ins

These tots are not only flavorful and fun, but they also highlight the natural sweetness and texture of yellow squash. They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and absolutely irresistible with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect bite-sized tot.

🧾 Main Ingredients:

2 cups grated yellow squash (moisture squeezed out thoroughly)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion (white or yellow)
1 egg (binds the mixture together)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth)
1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance flavor)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a hint of spice)
Oil for frying (optional – for pan-fried tots)

🥄 Pro Tips:

Squeeze the squash thoroughly to remove moisture—it’s the key to crispy tots.
Pre-grated cheese may have anti-caking agents. For best melt and taste, grate fresh cheese if possible.
Add herbs like parsley, dill, or even chopped chives for extra flavor.

How to Make Yellow Squash Tots

This recipe is easy enough for beginners and quick enough for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of golden, cheesy tots.

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prep the Squash

Grate the yellow squash using a box grater or food processor. Place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is essential to prevent soggy tots.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the grated squash, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Shape the Tots

Using your hands or a small spoon, form the mixture into small, tot-sized cylinders. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the tots are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through baking for even browning.

Optional: Frying Instructions

For extra crispiness, heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat and pan-fry the tots for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Yellow Squash Tots are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ways to serve them:

🍽️ Dipping Sauces

Classic ketchup
Spicy sriracha mayo
Garlic aioli
Ranch or chipotle ranch
Greek yogurt and herb dip

🥗 As a Side Dish

Serve alongside:

Grilled chicken or fish
Veggie burgers
Summer salads
Sandwiches and wraps

🍱 As a Snack or Appetizer

Arrange them on a platter with dips for a party-perfect finger food. They’re also great lunchbox additions for kids and adults alike.

Storage and Reheating Tips

❄️ To Store:

Let the tots cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

❄️ To Freeze:

Place cooked and cooled tots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

🔁 To Reheat:

Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
Microwave: Not recommended for best texture, but will work in a pinch (about 30–45 seconds per serving).

Customize Your Tots

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt to your taste. Here are some creative variations:

🌱 Add Vegetables:

Finely chopped spinach or kale
Grated carrot or zucchini (also squeeze out moisture!)

🧀 Change the Cheese:

Pepper jack for a spicy kick
Mozzarella for a milder flavor
Parmesan for extra umami

🌶️ Spice It Up:

Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cumin for extra flavor
Stir in a touch of Dijon mustard for depth

🥩 Make it Meaty:

Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage for a heartier version.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?

Yes! Zucchini works just as well. The texture and water content are similar, so feel free to swap them out 1:1.

❓ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

❓ Are these good for toddlers?

Definitely! Just be sure to chop the onion finely and adjust salt to suit younger taste buds. They’re a great way to get kids to eat their veggies.

❓ Can I make them in an air fryer?

Yes! Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook the tots for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Why Yellow Squash?

Yellow squash is more than just a seasonal vegetable—it’s a nutrient-dense, low-calorie ingredient that’s surprisingly versatile in the kitchen. Here are some health benefits:

Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function
High in antioxidants like beta-carotene
Good source of fiber, aiding in digestion
Low-carb alternative to potatoes in many recipes

Incorporating yellow squash into your meals is a simple, delicious way to eat seasonally and stay healthy.

Final Thoughts: Make These Tots Your Own

There’s a reason these Yellow Squash Tots have become a summer staple in so many households. They’re simple, satisfying, and just the right balance of indulgent and nutritious. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit.

So next time you find yourself with an armful of yellow squash and a craving for something crunchy, give these tots a try. They’re comforting, crave-worthy, and a great reminder that the best recipes often come from the humblest ingredients.