Veggie Tots Recipe: A Healthy, Kid-friendly Snack!
If you’re looking for a great way to get more vegetables into your family’s diet, these child- friendly nutritious Veggie Tots are the perfect solution!
Packed with carrot, cauliflower, broccoli, and potato, these bite-sized snacks are full of nutrients and taste amazing, with a subtle garlic hit and yummy cheesy flavour.
They’re great for toddlers, lunchboxes, or healthy side dishes, and best of all, they freeze beautifully so you can always have a batch ready to go!
You can even share a batch with your little ones, served alongside leafy greens and a yummy dressing for a complete meal.
Why you'll love these Veggie Tots
Packed with hidden veggies – A great way to sneak in extra nutrients!
Child-friendly – They’re nice and soft for little mouths, but still hold their shape really well, making them the perfect baby-led weaning starting food!
Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and store for easy meals.
Easy to make – No fancy equipment needed—just steam, mash, shape, and bake!
Customisable – Swap in your favourite veggies or add different cheeses for variety.
Ingredients: What you'll need to make Veggie Tots
Carrot: Adds natural sweetness, colour, and extra vitamins for a nutritious boost.
Cauliflower: Provides a mild, creamy texture and blends smoothly into the mixture.
Potato: Acts as a natural binder, making the tots soft and holding everything together.
Broccoli: Adds nutrients, fibre, and a pop of green while enhancing the veggie flavour.
Panko breadcrumbs: Help absorb moisture and create a light, crispy texture.
Mild cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, savoury flavour while helping to bind the tots.
Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the mixture firm and prevent the tots from falling apart.
Garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavour with a mild, savoury kick.
Recipe: How to make Veggie Tots
Prep Time: 15mins Cook Time: 20mins Total Time: 35mins
Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 180°C (350°F) Servings: 15
Ingredients
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped into large chunks (approx. 65g/2oz)
- ¼ cauliflower, cut into florets (approx. 150g/5oz)
- 1 potato, peeled and chopped into chunks (approx. 150g/5oz
- ½ head broccoli, cut into florets (approx. 100g/3.5oz)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup mild cheddar cheese (“tasty” cheese)
- 1 egg
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Step 1: Steam the vegetables
Steam the carrot, cauliflower, potato, and broccoli until soft.
Step 2: Mash your veggies
Let them cool slightly, then mash well in a large bowl until there are no large chunks.
Step 3: Add remaining ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed veggies with panko breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Mix well
Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Shape into tots
Now is a good time to preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into tot-sized fingers. If the mixture is too sticky, slightly dampen your hands to help shape them. If your mixture still feels too “wet”, try adding more breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Bake until golden, and enjoy!
Place the tots on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes, or until beginning to turn golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with a dip like yogurt sauce, hummus, or tomato sauce!
Storage and freezing tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container or zip lock bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes or air fry for extra crispiness.
Make Mealtimes Fun & Stress-Free
Introducing new foods can be challenging, especially during fussy phases. But with fun and engaging tableware, you’re already halfway to success!
Why you'll love Zooli's Range of Children's Dinner Sets
Zooli Silicone Racetrack Plates make mealtimes fun for kids and less stressful for families. The interactive racetrack keeps children engaged and encourages self-feeding, while the four-section design simplifies portioning. The anti-slip placemat keeps meals in place for easy cleanup and features designated cutlery parking spots to promote independence and catch messes. The set also includes adjustable Race Car Cutlery, designed to grow with your child and provide long-term value.
Designed for Kids, Loved by Parents
- Race track plate design – Encourages engagement and self-feeding
- Four-section plate – Simplifies portioning
- Non-slip placemat – Prevents spills and reduces mess
- Dishwasher-safe – Hassle-free cleaning with no hidden dirt traps
- 100% food-grade silicone – Safe, durable, and free from BPA, BPS, PVC, and phthalates
Discover the Zooli Racetrack Plate Set here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
Yes! Swap the panko for ground oats or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mild cheddar (“tasty” cheese), mozzarella, or parmesan work well for extra flavour.
Can I air fry them?
Absolutely! Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I add different vegetables?
Definitely! Try adding zucchini (squeezed dry), sweet potato, or peas for variety.
These crispy veggie tots are the ultimate way to make veggies fun and delicious for the whole family. If you love this recipe, or you’re a fan of Zooli’s adorable tableware, share the love and tag us on Instagram @zoolikids.
