A Deliciously Crispy and Cheesy Snack
There’s something irresistible about Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Fritters—a golden-brown crust, gooey cheese, and a soft, flavorful center. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a quick snack, or a side dish, these fritters will satisfy your cravings while sneaking in some extra veggies.
If you love cheesy, crispy bites but want a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods, this recipe is for you. These fritters are made with fresh zucchini, Parmesan, and mozzarella, giving them the perfect balance of crispiness, creaminess, and delicious flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Cheesy – The golden-brown crust gives way to a soft, cheesy inside.
✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with zucchini, protein, and fiber.
✔ Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes to make.
✔ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy veggie fritters.
✔ Versatile – Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients for Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Fritters
The perfect combination of textures and flavors makes these fritters a hit every time.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Zucchini (grated) | 4 cups | Yellow squash |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Sea salt, Himalayan salt |
| All-Purpose Flour | ¼ cup | Almond flour (low-carb option) |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | ¼ cup | Pecorino Romano |
| Shredded Mozzarella | ½ cup | Cheddar, Monterey Jack |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) |
| Egg (beaten) | 1 large | Flax egg (vegan option) |
| Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon | White pepper |
| Fresh Parsley (chopped) | ¼ cup | Cilantro, basil |
| Olive Oil (for frying) | As needed | Avocado oil, coconut oil |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Zucchini Fritters
1. Prep the Zucchini
- Place grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Using a clean kitchen towel, squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
2. Mix the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Drained zucchini
- Flour, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, beaten egg, black pepper, and parsley
- Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Shape the Fritters
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form small patties.
- Flatten them slightly so they cook evenly.
4. Fry the Fritters
- Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the fritters in the hot skillet without overcrowding.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve warm with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a tangy dipping sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
These crispy, cheesy fritters are a healthy, nutrient-packed treat that fits into a balanced diet.
Best Ways to Serve Zucchini Fritters
✅ As an Appetizer – Serve with tzatziki, marinara, or aioli.
✅ As a Side Dish – Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish, or salads.
✅ With Breakfast – Enjoy with poached eggs and avocado for a hearty meal.
✅ In a Wrap – Use them as a filling for pita, wraps, or sandwiches.
✅ With a Spicy Kick – Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat in an Oven – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
✔ Reheat in an Air Fryer – Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
✔ Freeze for Later – Freeze uncooked fritters on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Zucchini Fritters
✔ Squeeze Out the Moisture – Removing excess water ensures crispy fritters.
✔ Use a Hot Skillet – A hot pan and enough oil create the perfect crust.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches to avoid soggy fritters.
✔ Experiment with Herbs & Cheese – Try basil, oregano, or feta cheese for extra flavor.
✔ Make it Gluten-Free – Use almond flour or chickpea flour instead of regular flour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. How do I make the fritters extra crispy?
Make sure to squeeze out all the moisture from the zucchini and fry in hot oil.
3. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes! Thaw completely and drain well before using.
4. What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Try cheddar, feta, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
5. How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?
Ensure the batter is well-mixed, and if needed, add a little more flour for binding.
6. Can I make these fritters vegan?
Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and dairy-free cheese.
Final Thoughts – Try These Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Fritters Today!
If you’re looking for a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful way to enjoy zucchini, Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are a must-try. With their golden-brown crust, soft cheesy center, and delicious seasoning, they are a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Make them today and enjoy a healthier, tastier way to eat your veggies!
Print
Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Fritters: A Delightful Veggie Treat
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are an easy anddelicious way to elevate fresh zucchini with Parmesan and mozzarella for acrispy, golden treat. Perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving as a light sidedish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups grated zucchini
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel, squeeze the zucchini thoroughly to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, beaten egg, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until well incorporated.
- Form the Fritters: Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2–3 inches in diameter.
- Fry the Fritters: Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the hot skillet in batches, ensuring enough space to flip them. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve : Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a tangy dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini.
- Baking Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with almond or chickpea flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-inspired