Crispy Veggie Tots Recipe in Air Fryer | Easy & Healthy Snack

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike? This Veggie Tots Recipe in Air Fryer is a fantastic way to sneak in vegetables while enjoying a crispy, golden treat. Made with a blend of nutritious veggies, these tots are a wholesome alternative to store-bought versions and are easy to make using your air fryer. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or light snack, veggie tots are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to mix and match vegetables to suit your taste and dietary needs. Plus, the air fryer ensures they’re crispy without the excess oil, making them guilt-free and delicious.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Snack, Appetizer
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 150 per serving (approx.)

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Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg

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Prep and Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
• ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
• 1 large egg (or flaxseed egg for a vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray (optional)

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Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Cheese grater
• Knife and cutting board
• Parchment paper (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and grate the zucchini and carrot. Place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as possible to prevent soggy tots.
2. Finely chop the broccoli florets into small, rice-like pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini, carrot, broccoli, and corn (if using).
2. Add grated cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper).
3. Crack the egg into the mixture and mix well until all ingredients are combined. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Shape the Tots

1. Take a small portion of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it into a small cylinder or tot shape.
2. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture and place the tots on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
3. Let them rest for 10 minutes to firm up.

Step 4: Air Fry the Tots

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
3. Place the veggie tots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook in batches if necessary.
4. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The tots should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the veggie tots warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch, or a spicy mayo. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!

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Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture and shape the tots in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
• Custom Veggies: Swap out the veggies for others like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or spinach.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use nutritional yeast for a vegan and cheesy flavor.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked tots on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

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Why Use the Air Fryer?

Air frying is a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it uses little to no oil while still achieving a crispy texture. This method also speeds up cooking time and is incredibly convenient for quick snacks.

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Variations

• Spicy Veggie Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Explosion: Insert a small cube of cheese into the center of each tot for a gooey surprise.
• Herbed Tots: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for added flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

These air-fried veggie tots pair well with a variety of dishes:

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
• Add them to a kid-friendly lunchbox with fruit and yogurt.
• Use them as a topping for grain bowls or salads.

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Conclusion

This Veggie Tots Recipe in Air Fryer is a simple and healthy way to enjoy vegetables in a crispy, delicious form. Perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or meal prepping, these veggie tots are versatile, flavorful, and easy to customize. Give them a try and enjoy a guilt-free snack that everyone will love!