Spaghetti Squash Tots

Crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside these Spaghetti Squash Tots are the perfect healthy alternative to traditional potato tots! They are baked to golden perfection, offering a delightful crunch while keeping things light and wholesome. With a touch of garlic, Parmesan, and spices, every bite is bursting with comforting flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a kid friendly snack, a creative side dish, or a guilt-free indulgence, these tots are a must try! They pair beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces, from classic marinara to spicy aioli. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and reheat, making them a great addition to your meal prep routine. Give them a try and taste the magic of spaghetti squash in its crispiest, most delicious form!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 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

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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 for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the spaghetti squash cool, then use a fork to scrape out the strands. Squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
4. In a large bowl, mix the spaghetti squash strands with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Shape the mixture into small tots or patties and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Spray or drizzle lightly with olive oil for crispiness.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings:

Crispy Spaghetti Squash Tots: A Delicious and Healthy Snack

When it comes to finding a balance between comfort food and healthy eating, Spaghetti Squash Tots are a game-changer. These little golden bites are a delicious alternative to traditional potato tots, offering the same crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness but with far fewer carbs and a nutritional boost. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, a fun appetizer, or a creative way to enjoy more vegetables, these tots are a perfect choice.

In this article, we’ll explore why spaghetti squash is such a fantastic ingredient, the health benefits of these tots, how to customize them to your taste, and the best ways to serve and store them. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make this dish a staple in your kitchen.

Why Spaghetti Squash?

Spaghetti squash is one of the most unique vegetables out there, thanks to its stringy texture that resembles pasta when cooked. Unlike traditional pasta, however, it’s naturally low in carbs and calories while being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

One of the biggest advantages of using spaghetti squash in recipes is its versatility. While it’s often used as a low-carb substitute for spaghetti, it can also be transformed into casseroles, fritters, and, of course, tots. The mild flavor of spaghetti squash allows it to take on various seasonings and mix-ins, making it an excellent base for savory dishes.

Health Benefits of Spaghetti Squash Tots

These tots aren’t just delicious they’re packed with nutrients that make them a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. Here’s what makes them so great:

1. Low in Carbs – Traditional tater tots are made from potatoes, which are high in carbohydrates. Spaghetti squash provides a satisfying texture with far fewer carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

2. Rich in Fiber – Fiber is essential for digestive health and keeping you full longer. Spaghetti squash is a great source of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and prevent blood sugar spikes.

3. High in Vitamins and Minerals – Spaghetti squash is loaded with essential vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and B vitamins. It also provides important minerals like potassium and magnesium, which support heart health and muscle function.

4. Gluten-Free and Vegetarian-Friendly – This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent snack for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Plus, it’s vegetarian, making it accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences.

5. Lower in Calories and Fat – Unlike traditional deep-fried tater tots, these spaghetti squash tots are baked, reducing the overall fat content while still achieving a crispy, golden texture.

Customizing Your Spaghetti Squash Tots

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize the tots to match your dietary needs and personal preferences. Here are some creative ways to switch things up:

• Dairy-Free Option – If you’re avoiding dairy, swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the lactose.
• Extra Protein – Add cooked and crumbled turkey bacon, chicken, or even a bit of plant-based protein to make these tots heartier.
• Spice It Up – If you love a little heat, try adding cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
• Different Cheeses – While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a new flavor twist.
• Make Them Vegan – Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute to keep the tots plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

These tots are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of them:

• Dipping Sauces – Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a homemade spicy aioli for an extra layer of flavor.
• As a Side Dish – Pair them with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty salad for a complete meal.
• Breakfast Addition – Enjoy them alongside eggs and avocado for a nutritious breakfast.
• Party Appetizer – Serve them as finger food at gatherings with a selection of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), you can store them for later enjoyment.

• Refrigeration – Keep the tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing – For longer storage, freeze the tots on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer straight from the freezer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti Squash Tots are the perfect way to enjoy comfort food while staying on track with your health goals. They’re crispy, cheesy, and satisfying without the guilt of deep fried potato tots. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack, an easy appetizer, or a fun way to get more veggies into your diet, this recipe delivers.

Conclusion

Eating healthy doesn’t mean giving up on flavor, and these Spaghetti Squash Tots prove just that. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with nutrients that make them a great alternative to traditional tater tots.

The best part? You can easily customize them to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or a party appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, with easy storage and reheating options, you can make a big batch and enjoy them anytime.

So, the next time you’re craving something crispy and delicious, give these Spaghetti Squash Tots a try. They might just become your new favorite snack!