Ah, spaghetti squash tots! It feels like I’ve just unearthed a treasure chest of crispy, cheesy goodness. I remember the first time I tried making them; it was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something warm and delightful. When I pulled those golden-brown tots out of the oven, the aroma filled my kitchen like a cozy blanket, and I just knew I had to share this recipe with everyone! The thought of enjoying these crunchy bites while catching up with friends—it warms my heart just thinking about it.
What’s not to love about a dish that’s both delicious and healthy? These little nuggets are perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or even as a light meal. Plus, they have that magnificent crunch that reminds me of childhood favorites, but with an adult twist that’s just a tad bit healthier! So, let’s dive into this fantastic recipe, shall we?
What’s in Spaghetti Squash Tots?
Now, let’s break down the ingredients. You’ll see that each component brings its charm to the dish!
Spaghetti Squash: The star of the show! When roasted, it transforms into delicious strands that are the perfect base for our tots.
Shredded Cheese: Whether you go with cheddar or your favorite variety, this creamy addition takes these tots to the next level. I personally love sharp cheddar for that extra zing!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko because of the amazing crunch it brings. Those little flakes really help the tots crisp up beautifully.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this salty cheese adds depth and flavor, enhancing the overall savory profile.
Large Egg: A binder that unites all the ingredients—plus, it adds a lovely richness!
Garlic: Freshly minced, this aromatic ingredient boosts the flavor in an irresistible way.
Onion Powder and Paprika: These spices work their magic, bringing warmth and a hint of smokiness. Don’t sleep on these—your taste buds will thank you!
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings, but oh so necessary! They enhance every other flavor in this dish.
Olive Oil Spray or Olive Oil: We need that touch of oil for crisping up the tots and achieving that golden-brown perfection.
Is Spaghetti Squash Tots Good for You?
I bet you’re wondering, is this tasty snack actually good for me? Spoiler: it totally is!
Spaghetti Squash: This gorgeous veggie is low in calories and packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s the base of our tots, making them a light alternative to traditional potato treats.
Cheese: While cheese does come with extra calories and fat, it also contributes a good deal of calcium and protein. Just use your favorite varieties in moderation, and you’ll do just fine!
Breadcrumbs: Opting for whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs can provide additional fiber, making these tots a bit more wholesome.
So, do indulge in these delightful bites knowing you’re getting veggies in your diet without sacrificing taste!
Ingredients List
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
This recipe will serve about 4, depending on how many you eat while cooking—no judgment here!
How to Make Spaghetti Squash Tots?
Let’s get you cooking these delicious bites! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be munching in no time.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). The smell of these tots baking will be worth the wait!
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until it is tender and can be easily scraped with a fork.
3. Once cooked, let the spaghetti squash cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape out the strands into a large bowl. Don’t forget to squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
4. In the bowl with the spaghetti squash, add the shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined—be sure to get in there and really mix it up!
5. Shape the mixture into small tots or patties (about the size of a golf ball), and line them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil, or drizzle a bit over if you prefer. Let’s get these babies crisp!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tots are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy them warm or even at room temp.
Customize Your Crispy Treats
Don’t hesitate to play around with this recipe! Swap out the cheese for a dairy-free option, add in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or experiment with different spices to suit your taste buds.
They’re also fabulous without any additional dipping sauce, but if you’re looking to dress them up, I totally recommend ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli for that extra kick.
I really hope you give these spaghetti squash tots a try! They’ve made their way into my regular snack rotation, and I’m sure they’ll become a favorite for you too. If you do make them, please share your experience—I love hearing from fellow food enthusiasts! Happy cooking!
