Golden Squash Bites: A Veggie-Packed Delight

Looking for a fun, wholesome snack or side dish that sneaks in some veggies? These Golden Squash Bites are crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Made with vibrant yellow squash, they’re perfect for kids and adults alike. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into delightful nuggets that are baked to golden perfection, offering a healthier twist on classic tots. Let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe!

Ingredients (Makes about 20–24 bites):

2 cups finely grated yellow squash (about 2 medium squash), excess moisture thoroughly squeezed out
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, for that melty, savory goodness
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion, for a hint of sweetness
1 large egg, lightly beaten, to bind everything together
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, for a subtle savory kick
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, to enhance the flavors
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, for a touch of warmth
Cooking spray or a light drizzle of vegetable oil (optional, for frying or extra crispiness)

Equipment Needed:

Box grater or food processor (for grating squash)
Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth (to remove moisture)
Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat
Optional: Skillet (if frying instead of baking)

Preparation Steps:

Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and toasty. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you prefer frying, you can skip this step for now and heat oil later.
Mix the Magic: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated yellow squash (make sure you’ve squeezed out as much water as possible to avoid soggy bites), shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, diced onion, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together with a spoon or your hands until the mixture is well-blended and holds together when pressed. The cheese and egg will act as the glue, while the breadcrumbs add that perfect crunch.
Shape the Bites: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small, tot-like cylinder or ball, depending on your preference. Place each bite on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking. Repeat until you’ve used all the mixture. For extra uniformity, you can use a small cookie scoop to portion them out.
Bake to Perfection: Lightly spray the tops of the bites with cooking spray for an extra crispy exterior (optional). Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crisp on the outside. If you’re frying, heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the bites for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the bites cool slightly before serving—they’ll be hot! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch, marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo, for an extra flavor boost. These are great as a snack, appetizer, or side dish alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success:

Squeeze Thoroughly: Removing moisture from the squash is key to achieving a crispy texture. Wrap the grated squash in a clean kitchen towel and twist tightly over a sink to extract as much liquid as possible.
Customize It: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy twist, or toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill for brightness.
Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Shape and bake when ready to serve.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Why You’ll Love These:
These Golden Squash Bites are a fantastic way to use up summer squash while creating a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. The cheesy, crispy exterior paired with the tender, veggie-filled interior makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile—bake them for a lighter option or fry them for a treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a cozy snack, these bites will steal the show.