Cheesy Zucchini Patties
Golden, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness!
Description
These Cheesy Zucchini Patties are a delicious way to turn fresh zucchini into a crispy, savory snack that the whole family will love. Made with grated zucchini, melted cheddar cheese, Parmesan, eggs, and simple seasonings, these patties are pan-fried until beautifully golden on the outside while staying soft and cheesy inside.
They’re perfect as a quick lunch, a tasty appetizer, a light dinner side, or a satisfying afternoon snack. Serve them warm with garlic yogurt sauce, sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce. Best of all, this easy recipe uses simple ingredients and is a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal zucchini!
Ingredients
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15–20 minutes | Servings: 4 (about 10–12 patties)
– 2 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– 2–3 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
Optional dipping sauce
– ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Grate the zucchini: Wash the zucchini and grate it using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a bowl and sprinkle lightly with salt.
2. Remove excess moisture: Let the zucchini sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze it firmly in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Removing excess water is essential for crispy patties.
3. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, eggs, flour, minced garlic, parsley, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
4. Mix thoroughly: Stir until the ingredients are evenly combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it seems too wet, add another tablespoon of flour.
5. Shape the patties: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture for each patty and flatten gently into small rounds.
6. Heat the skillet: Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat before adding the patties.
7. Cook until golden: Place the patties in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for approximately 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown, crisp, and cooked through.
8. Drain the excess oil: Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding a little more oil as needed.
9. Prepare the dipping sauce: Mix Greek yogurt or sour cream with lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
10. Serve warm: Arrange the cheesy zucchini patties on a serving plate and serve with the dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Recipe Tips
– Squeeze out the water: This is the most important step for preventing soggy patties.
– Choose your cheese: Mozzarella creates a stretchy center, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor.
– Avoid overcrowding: Cook in batches to help the patties brown evenly.
– Make them gluten-free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a suitable gluten-free flour blend.
– Bake instead of frying: Arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– Add more flavor: Try chopped green onions, fresh dill, or a pinch of chili flakes.
– Store leftovers: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Why are my zucchini patties falling apart?
Excess moisture is usually the cause. Squeeze the grated zucchini thoroughly and add a little more flour if the mixture is still too loose.
Q: Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes. Grate and drain the zucchini ahead of time, then refrigerate it. For the best texture, mix and cook the patties shortly before serving.
Q: Can I use mozzarella instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! Mozzarella gives the patties a milder flavor and a gooey, stretchy texture. You can also combine both cheeses.
Q: Are cheesy zucchini patties suitable for meal prep?
Yes. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat in an air fryer or oven. They make a convenient snack or side dish.
Q: What can I serve with zucchini patties?
They pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, scrambled eggs, or a creamy garlic yogurt dip.
Short Description
These Cheesy Zucchini Patties are crispy, golden, and packed with fresh zucchini, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Easy to make and full of savory flavor, they’re perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a delicious family side dish!