I’m still buzzing from my latest flavor experiment – get ready for Butternut Squash Tots that are about to take over your kitchen! These aren’t your average vegetable tots; we’re talking crispy edges, a subtly sweet center, and a flavor that’s so addictive, you’ll forget they’re loaded with goodness. This Butternut Squash Tots recipe is a total game-changer, trust me.

This recipe is pure Cuba Queen – bold flavors packed into a bite-sized snack. I’ve always been obsessed with finding ways to make healthy eating feel like a total celebration. Forget boring steamed veggies; we’re turning butternut squash into golden, crispy, craveable Butternut Squash Tots!

I’m practically bursting to share this Butternut Squash Tots recipe with you because I know you love big, satisfying flavors as much as I do. Get ready to transform your snack game forever! If you love this Butternut Squash recipe, be sure to check out my Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage.

INGREDIENTS You Need

This Butternut Squash Tots ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, savory notes, and irresistible crunch.

1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds): This is the star of our Butternut Squash Tots, delivering natural sweetness and creamy texture. You can find the best at your local farmer’s market when in season or grab a pre-cut package for convenience.
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko is the secret to extra-crispy tots! Its light, airy texture creates the perfect outer layer.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the squash beautifully. Splurge on the good stuff for a real flavor punch.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the tots crisp up in the oven.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth to the Butternut Squash Tots.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness of the squash and enhancing all the other flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and complexity.
Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Here’s the Butternut Squash Tots game-changer that will blow your mind: roasting the squash instead of boiling it! Roasting concentrates the flavors and eliminates excess moisture, resulting in perfectly textured tots.

Don’t have panko? Use regular breadcrumbs, but pulse them in a food processor for a finer texture. Store any leftover butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for this Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s get down to business! Follow these steps, and you’ll be sinking your teeth into golden, crispy Butternut Squash Tots in no time.

Prep the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Roast the Squash: Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender. In my kitchen, this Butternut Squash Tots base takes exactly 45 minutes to get that perfect caramelization.
Cool and Scoop: Let the squash cool slightly before scooping out the flesh into a bowl.
Mash It Up: Mash the squash with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Don’t stress – your Butternut Squash Tots is going to be incredible.
Combine Ingredients: Add the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed squash. Mix everything together until well combined. This is where your Butternut Squash Tots transforms into pure magic.
Shape the Tots: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small tot shapes.
Bake the Tots: Place the Butternut Squash Tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tots are golden brown and crispy. Here’s where most people mess up their Butternut Squash Tots – but not you! Keep an eye on them; they should look golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Cool Slightly & Devour: Let the Butternut Squash Tots cool slightly before serving. While your Butternut Squash Tots is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!

Pro tip for Butternut Squash Tots perfection: don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Bake in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping. For more bold flavor adventures, check out these butternut squash recipes.

PRESENTATION

Presentation is KEY, my friends! How you serve your Butternut Squash Tots can take them from a simple snack to a total showstopper.

For maximum impact, arrange the Butternut Squash Tots in a playful pyramid on a platter. Serve with a creamy dipping sauce, like a spicy mayo or a cool ranch. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Butternut Squash Tots at game nights with friends.

This Butternut Squash Tots absolutely slays at dinner parties! Pair them with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. Consider serving these amazing tots alongside Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash, or even alongside some roasted chicken.

Leftover Butternut Squash Tots can be transformed into a delicious topping for salads or soups. They add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. For a seasonal variation, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the squash mixture for a cozy autumn flavor. For more sanity-saving dinner ideas, check out my Butternut Squash Soup.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common Butternut Squash Tots cooking challenges and my solutions based on my own taste-testing sessions.

Q: Can I make this Butternut Squash Tots spicier?

A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the squash mixture. I’ve even experimented with a chipotle powder for a smoky kick.

Q: What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs for my Butternut Squash Tots?

A: No problem! Use regular breadcrumbs, but pulse them in a food processor for a finer texture. You can also use crushed crackers or even almond flour for a gluten-free option.

Q: How do I know when my Butternut Squash Tots are perfectly done?

A: They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Don’t be afraid to cut one open to check!

Q: Can I freeze these Butternut Squash Tots?

A: Yes! Place the baked and cooled tots on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with Butternut Squash Tots?

A: The possibilities are endless! I love serving them with a spicy mayo, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a simple marinara sauce. I get a lot of community feedback about how my spicy mayo is the best!

Q: Can I add other vegetables to these Butternut Squash Tots?

A: Of course! Try adding grated zucchini, carrots, or even spinach to the squash mixture. This is a great way to sneak in extra veggies. The options are endless! You can even look into making some yellow squash tots.

Q: How can I make these Butternut Squash Tots vegan?

A: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative. The rest of the recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!

CONCLUSION

This Butternut Squash Tots recipe represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and a whole lot of fun in the kitchen. This recipe is a flavor bomb that will change the way you think about vegetable tots forever.

Here are My Butternut Squash Tots Power Tips:

Roast, Don’t Boil: Roasting the squash intensifies the flavor and eliminates excess moisture.
Panko is Key: Panko breadcrumbs deliver that irresistible crispy texture.
Don’t Overcrowd: Bake the tots in batches to ensure even crisping.

I’ve created and loved so many variations of these Butternut Squash Tots! Some of my favorites include adding cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall-inspired version, incorporating roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor, or even drizzling them with a balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. If you are looking to spice things up, maybe spicy butternut squash tots are right for you.

But the original Butternut Squash Tots recipe always gets the biggest reactions! There’s just something about that simple combination of sweet squash, savory Parmesan, and crispy panko that is absolutely irresistible. If these Butternut Squash Tots are a hit, maybe you should try Butternut Squash Soup!

I’m confident that you’ll nail this Butternut Squash Tots recipe and create your own flavor memories. Share your results and tell me what you think! Don’t forget to check out this Baked Butternut Squash Tots recipe for inspiration! Get in the kitchen and start your own flavor adventure! 🔥🌮✨ You can find this and many other butternut squash recipes all over the internet.

Butternut Squash Tots

Print Recipe

These Butternut Squash Tots are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato tots. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they’re a perfect snack or side dish for kids and adults alike!

Author: Quinn
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Snack
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Steam or boil butternut squash until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain the squash well and mash thoroughly.
In a large bowl, combine mashed butternut squash, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Shape the mixture into small tots.
Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch, or a homemade aioli.