Black Bean & Oat Power Tots

Name: Black Bean & Oat Power Tots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup Black Beans: Rinsed, drained, and patted dry.; 1/4 cup Quick Oats: Or almond flour/breadcrumbs to bind everything.; 1/4 cup Grated Carrot or Zucchini: Squeeze out the liquid first!; 1/4 cup Shredded Mild Cheese; 1/2 tsp Cumin or Garlic Powder: For a little flavor boost.; 1 Egg: The binder that keeps it from falling apart in his lunchbox.

5 steps

Prep:10minCook:15min

Black Bean & Oat Power Tots are savory bites featuring black beans, oats, and veggies, baked to golden perfection, ideal for a nutritious snack or side dish.

Updated at: Wed, 11 Mar 2026 02:33:06 GMT

Nutrition balance score

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Ingredients

4 servings

1 cupBlack Beans

Rinsed, drained, and patted dry

¼ cupQuick Oats

Or almond flour/breadcrumbs to bind everything

¼ cupCarrot

Grated, or Zucchini, Squeeze out the liquid first

¼ cupMild Cheese

Shredded

½ tspCumin

or Garlic Powder, For a little flavor boost

1Egg

The binder that keeps it from falling apart in his lunchbox

Instructions

Step 1

The Mash: In a medium bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until about 80% smooth. It’s okay if a few skins are visible, but a smoother base stays together better.

Step 2

The Mix: Stir in the oats, grated veggie, cheese, spices, and the egg. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes—this allows the oats to soak up the moisture so the tots aren't soggy.

Step 3

The Shape: Roll into small, bite-sized "tots" or flattened discs (about 1 inch wide).

Step 4

The Cook: * Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined sheet for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Step 5

Cool & Pack: Let them cool completely on a wire rack before putting them in a container. This prevents steam from making them mushy.