Yellow Squash Tots Garlicky: Amazing 400°F Bake

August 16, 2025

Yellow Squash Tots Garlicky have become my absolute favorite way to sneak veggies into snack time, and I think you’ll love them too! I remember when my kids were younger, they’d turn their noses up at anything green, but these little golden bites changed everything. The first time I made these yellow squash fritters garlic, the aroma of savory squash and garlic filled my kitchen, and my picky eaters were asking for seconds before they were even done baking. They’re so simple, making it an easy yellow squash tots recipe that even busy parents can whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Yellow Squash Tots

These little gems are a game-changer, and here’s why I think you’ll adore them:

Incredible Taste: They boast a perfectly savory flavor with a hint of garlic that makes them irresistible.
Quick Prep Time: You can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Choice: Packed with veggies, these garlicky yellow squash bites are a guilt-free snack or side.
Budget-Friendly: Yellow squash is usually quite affordable, making these tots easy on your wallet.
Family Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters will gobble up these crispy, golden tots.
Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a healthy appetizer or a delightful side dish anytime.
Deliciously Simple: These garlicky yellow squash bites are incredibly easy to make from scratch.
Satisfying Crunch: They offer a wonderfully crisp exterior with a tender, flavorful inside.

Ingredients for Homemade Yellow Squash Tots Garlic

Crafting these delicious yellow squash tots garlic is simple with just a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 medium yellow squash, grated – Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible after grating; this is crucial for crispy tots!
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a lovely cheesy flavor and helps bind everything together.
1/3 cup breadcrumbs – Panko breadcrumbs work best for that extra crunch.
1 large egg – This acts as the binder for our homemade yellow squash tots garlic mixture.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For that essential garlicky kick.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth.

How to Make Yellow Squash Tots

Making these delightful yellow squash tots is a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously crispy, savory snack. First things first, get your oven preheating to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this little step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your tots don’t stick. Now, for the squash prep: place your grated yellow squash into a clean kitchen towel and give it a good, firm squeeze to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture, avoiding soggy tots, and ensuring they hold their shape beautifully as they bake. The best yellow squash tots with garlic start with this crucial step.

Yellow Squash Tots Garlicky: Amazing 400°F Bake - Yellow Squash Tots Garlicky - additional detail

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Place the grated yellow squash in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed squash, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together when you press it.
Step 4: Shape the mixture into small tot shapes, about 1 to 1.5 inches long. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one so they can get nice and golden. Trying to make them all roughly the same size helps them cook evenly, contributing to those best yellow squash tots with garlic.
Step 5: Bake for 22-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and a crispy exterior. The aroma that fills your kitchen will let you know they’re almost ready!

Making the Garlicky Yogurt Dip

While the tots are baking, whip up the accompanying dip. In a small bowl, simply combine 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 clove garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. Stir it all together until smooth and creamy. This simple yet zesty dip is the perfect complement to your yellow squash tots garlic yogurt dip, adding a cool, tangy counterpoint to the warm, crispy tots.

Pro Tips for the Best Yellow Squash Tots

I’ve learned a few tricks over time to make these tots absolutely amazing every single time. Follow these tips, and you’ll be serving up the crispiest, most flavorful bites!

Squeeze, Squeeze, Squeeze!: Don’t skimp on squeezing the moisture out of the yellow squash. This is the most critical step for achieving a crispy texture, not a soggy one.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your tots some breathing room on the baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate, ensuring they get evenly golden and crisp all around.
Adjust Breadcrumbs as Needed: If your mixture feels too wet to shape, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs. If it feels too dry, a tiny splash of water or milk can help bind it.
Bake, Don’t Fry: While you can air fry them, baking is a simpler, healthier method that still yields fantastic results for these garlicky yellow squash bites.

What’s the secret to perfect yellow squash tots?

The real secret to perfect yellow squash tots is ensuring you remove as much moisture from the grated squash as possible. This is how you make garlicky yellow squash tots that are truly crispy, not mushy.

Can I make yellow squash tots ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the tots ahead of time and store them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. They’re also delicious served with a side of yellow squash fritter garlic sauce.

How do I avoid common mistakes with yellow squash tots?

The biggest mistake is not squeezing out enough water from the squash, leading to mushy tots. Also, overcrowding the baking sheet prevents them from crisping up. For extra flavor, try adding a little Parmesan for cheesy yellow squash tots garlic.

Yellow Squash Tots Garlicky: Amazing 400°F Bake - Yellow Squash Tots Garlicky - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Yellow Squash Tots

These crispy, golden tots are incredibly versatile and wonderfully delicious. They make fantastic yellow squash and garlic appetizers for any gathering, especially when served with their creamy garlicky yogurt dip. For a light lunch or dinner, pair them with a fresh green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette; the crispness of the tots contrasts beautifully with the tender greens. They also make a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken or fish, adding a fun, veggie-packed element to your meal. Honestly, they’re so good, you might just want to serve them as a main course with a side of your favorite dipping sauce! For more delicious recipes, check out our full recipe collection.

Nutrition Facts for Yellow Squash Tots

These healthy yellow squash tots garlic are a fantastic lighter option, and I love how satisfying they are. Per serving (this recipe makes about 4 servings), you’re looking at a delicious, veggie-packed bite. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Calories: 140
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 270mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy eating inspiration, explore our weight loss recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Yellow Squash Tots

Keeping these delicious yellow squash tots fresh is easy, whether you have a few leftovers or want to prep ahead. Once they’re baked and cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They’re still fantastic when served cold, but if you want that lovely crispness back, reheating is the way to go! For the best results, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also revive these garlic infused yellow squash tots in an air fryer for a few minutes. If you need to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For more tips on food storage, you can refer to food safety guidelines.

Variations of Yellow Squash Tots You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you’ll love experimenting with these fun twists! For a delightful flavor upgrade, try making garlic parmesan yellow squash tots by adding 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture along with the cheddar. If you prefer a different cooking method, these are fantastic when made in the air fryer – just ensure they’re coated with a little oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. And remember, these baked yellow squash tots garlic are also delicious served with a side of sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile! You might also enjoy our crispy roasted cauliflower recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yellow Squash Tots

What are yellow squash tots with garlic?

These are delightful, crispy baked nuggets made from grated yellow squash, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasoning, infused with garlic flavor. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional potato tots and a fantastic way to enjoy yellow squash, especially when served with a creamy garlicky yogurt dip.

Are yellow squash tots kid-friendly?

Absolutely! These kid-friendly yellow squash tots garlic are a huge hit with children. Their mild flavor, satisfyingly crispy texture, and fun tot shape make them appealing, and the hidden veggies are a win for parents. They’re a great way to introduce kids to new vegetables.

Can I use different cheeses in my yellow squash tots?

Yes! While cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little heat, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor. Just ensure the cheese is finely shredded so it melts well into the mixture.

How can I make my yellow squash tots extra crispy?

The key to extra crispiness is squeezing out as much moisture as possible from the grated yellow squash. Also, ensure you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, giving each tot space to crisp up. A final spritz of cooking spray before baking can also help achieve that perfect golden crunch.