Cheesy Zucchini Bites
Golden, crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, these Cheesy Zucchini Bites are the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Made with fresh zucchini, mozzarella, Parmesan, herbs, and simple pantry ingredients, they’re a delicious way to enjoy vegetables.
⏱️ Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Course: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 tsp salt (for drawing out moisture)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray or 1 tbsp olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2
Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Step 3
Wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Grated zucchini
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Italian seasoning
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Paprika
Mix until evenly combined.
Step 5
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan (about ½-inch thick), or shape into small bite-sized patties.
Step 6
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7
For an extra crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes.
Step 8
Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then cut into bite-sized squares or sticks.
Serve warm.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Sour cream
- Greek yogurt dip
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Fresh garden salad
- Grilled chicken
💡 Tips
- Squeeze the zucchini thoroughly to prevent soggy bites.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor.
- Add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
🥣 Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crispy.
🥗 Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
🥜 Allergen Information
Contains:
- ✅ Milk (Mozzarella, Parmesan)
- ✅ Eggs
- ✅ Wheat/Gluten (Breadcrumbs)
Does NOT Normally Contain:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Soy
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Sesame
Gluten-Free Option
Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dairy-Free Option
Use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives.
Egg-Free Option
Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
2. Why are my zucchini bites soggy?
The zucchini likely wasn’t squeezed well enough. Removing excess moisture is the key to crispy bites.
3. Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through if making patties.
4. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely. Yellow squash works just as well and provides a similar texture.
5. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella provides a melty texture, while Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor. Cheddar or Monterey Jack are also great options.
6. Can I make these low-carb?
Yes. Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb or keto-friendly version.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Finely chopped spinach, grated carrots, corn, or bell peppers make excellent additions.
8. What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, tzatziki, spicy mayo, pesto, or sour cream all pair wonderfully with Cheesy Zucchini Bites.
