Flavor-Packed Butternut Squash Tots
Crispy, flavorful, and nutrient-rich, these Butternut Squash Tots are a wholesome alternative to traditional fried snacks. Perfect for snack time, side dishes, or meal prep, they are easy to make, naturally sweet, and packed with fiber and plant-based goodness.
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 fork or potato masher
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups Butternut Squash cubed
- 1 tsp Olive Oil
- ½ cup Carrot grated
- ¼ cup Onion grated
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped
- ½ tsp Smoked Paprika
- ½ tbsp Cumin
- ¼ cup Almond Flour
- ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
- Pinch of Salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures your squash will roast evenly and develop a lightly caramelized flavor. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.Make sure the parchment paper lies flat with no wrinkles, as uneven surfaces can cause the tots to cook inconsistently.
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Place your cubed butternut squash onto the prepared baking sheet. The cubes should be approximately 1/2 inch or slightly smaller, allowing them to roast quickly and evenly. Drizzle the squash with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and toss gently with your hands or a spatula so every piece is lightly coated.Spread the cubes in a single layer to avoid overcrowding, which could cause steaming instead of roasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25 minutes. The squash should become tender and slightly golden, releasing a sweet, roasted aroma.
- Mash the Roasted Squash: Once roasted, transfer the squash to a medium mixing bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, mash the cubes until they form a smooth, creamy puree. Aim for a consistency without large lumps, as a smoother base helps the tots hold together better during baking. The squash should be warm, making it easier to combine with the remaining ingredients.
- Combine the Vegetables and Spices: Add the grated carrot, grated onion, and chopped fresh parsley to the squash puree. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, almond flour, and a pinch of salt. Using a spatula or spoon, fold the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed and every bite will have a balanced flavor. Take a moment to taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Shape the Tots: Lightly grease another baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, roughly 1–1.5 inches in diameter.Gently press each ball slightly to ensure it holds together during baking. Arrange the tots in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for even cooking.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the tots in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Every 10 minutes, rotate the baking sheet and gently turn the tots to ensure all sides brown evenly and achieve a lightly crispy exterior. Watch closely toward the end of baking to prevent burning, especially if your oven runs hot.
- Cool and Serve: Once the tots are golden and firm to the touch, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the tots to cool for a few minutes before serving, as this helps them set and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as a crunchy topping for salads or bowls.
- Optional Meal Prep and Storage: If making ahead, allow the tots to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container, then reheat in the oven for a crisp finish.
Notes
- Use a fork or potato masher to achieve a smooth squash puree for better binding.
- Make sure squash cubes are uniform in size to ensure even roasting.
- Lightly greasing the baking sheet or using parchment paper prevents sticking.
- Turn the tots every 10 minutes while baking for even browning and crispness.
- Spice levels can be adjusted—add more cayenne for heat or paprika for smokiness.
- Almond flour adds structure and a subtle nutty flavor; substitute with coconut flour for variation.
- These tots freeze well—freeze in a single layer before transferring to a storage container.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness, or reheat in the oven to restore texture.
