Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden fritters are loaded with zucchini and melted cheese, making them a satisfying snack, appetizer, or light meal. They’re quick to make, customizable, and perfect for using up summer produce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy and Cheesy: A perfect combination of golden exterior and melty, savory interior.
Vegetable-Packed: A creative and tasty way to eat more vegetables.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Customizable: Use your favorite cheese or add herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike—great for lunchboxes or casual dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Medium zucchinis, shredded
Large egg
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
All-purpose flour (optional, for binding)
Salt
Pepper
Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

directions

Prepare the Zucchini:
Shred the zucchinis using a grater. Place the shreds in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crisp fritters.
Mix Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, egg, shredded cheese, flour (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
Heat the Oil:
Add oil to a non-stick skillet and heat over medium heat.
Form the Fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per fritter into the skillet. Gently flatten each with a spatula to form even rounds.
Cook the Fritters:
Fry the fritters for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
Drain and Serve:
Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with sour cream, plain yogurt, or your favorite dip.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: ~180 kcal per serving

Variations

Herbed Fritters: Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives for extra flavor.
Spicy Option: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
Low-Carb Version: Omit the flour and use almond flour or leave it out entirely if the mixture holds together.
Baked Fritters: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a lined sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best crispness. Avoid microwaving, which may soften the fritters.
Freezing: Freeze cooked fritters on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in a hot skillet or oven.

FAQs

How do I keep the fritters from falling apart?

Be sure to remove excess moisture from the zucchini and use enough binding (egg and flour). Press gently when forming them.

Can I make these fritters without flour?

Yes, if your mixture holds together well. You can also substitute with breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar offers great flavor, while mozzarella provides a nice stretch. Mix cheeses for added depth.

Can I make these fritters in advance?

Yes, cook and cool them completely, then refrigerate. Reheat before serving for best results.

How do I keep fritters crispy?

Serve immediately after cooking or reheat in a dry skillet to regain crispness. Avoid covering them while warm.

What dips go well with these fritters?

Sour cream, tzatziki, garlic aioli, or even marinara sauce pair wonderfully.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, try grated carrots, corn, or chopped spinach for a more colorful and nutritious fritter.

How thin should the zucchini be shredded?

Use the fine or medium side of a box grater for the best texture.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re a great way to sneak vegetables into a kid-friendly snack or lunch.

Can I make them in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

Conclusion

Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are a fast, flavorful, and fun way to enjoy vegetables, made even better by the crisp exterior and gooey cheese interior. With only a few pantry staples and fresh zucchini, you’ll have a delicious snack or side dish that pleases everyone at the table. Perfect for summer meals, easy entertaining, or just a satisfying meatless option.

Cheesy Zucchini Fritters

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Author: Douaa
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4-servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with melty cheese and fresh zucchini flavor. Quick, easy, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal—these fritters are a delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, shredded
1 large egg
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or preferred blend)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for binding)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

Prepare Zucchini:
- Shred zucchinis and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Mix Ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine zucchini, egg, cheese, flour (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until the batter comes together.
Heat the Pan:
- Warm oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Form and Fry Fritters:
- Scoop ~2 tablespoons of mixture per fritter into the pan.
- Flatten slightly with a spatula.
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Drain and Serve:
- Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve warm with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dip.

Notes

Add chopped herbs like dill or parsley for an herby twist.
Replace flour with almond flour for a low-carb option.
Make them mini for party appetizers or large for a main dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: American