The Best Cheesy Zucchini Fritters

The Best Cheesy Zucchini Fritters

Table of Contents

These Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are everything you want in a savory snack or side—crispy edges, melty cheese centers, and fresh garden flavor. Perfect for using up summer zucchini, they’re quick to make and kid-approved. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a brunch side, or even a vegetarian main, they’re impossible to resist.

Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients (Makes 10–12 fritters)

2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup shredded mozzarella (or your favorite melty cheese)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional but recommended)

2 eggs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low carb)

2 tablespoons chopped parsley or chives

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Oil for frying (olive oil or avocado oil work well)

Instructions

Grate and drain zucchini:
Grate the zucchini and place in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes. Then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Make the fritter batter:
In a large bowl, combine drained zucchini, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, flour, herbs, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

Heat oil:
In a large skillet, heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.

Form and cook fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter and drop into the hot skillet. Flatten slightly with a spatula. Cook 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

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Drain and serve:
Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Garnish with extra herbs and serve warm—optionally with sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.

Tips & Variations

Tips

Drain thoroughly: Removing as much water from the zucchini as possible is crucial to crispy fritters. Don’t skip this step!

Use a nonstick skillet: It helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.

Small batches: Fry in batches so the pan isn’t overcrowded—this keeps the temperature steady and fritters crispy.

Keep warm: If making a large batch, keep cooked fritters warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing the rest.

Variations

Add veggies: Shredded carrots, spinach, or corn make great additions.

Change the cheese: Use cheddar, fontina, gouda, or feta for different flavor profiles.

Make them spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.

Low-carb version: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour blends to keep them celiac-friendly.

Q&A

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Place spoonfuls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flatten them, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Can I freeze zucchini fritters?
A: Yes. Cool completely, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a zip-top bag. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crisp.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: It’s best to cook right after mixing because zucchini continues to release moisture. If you prep ahead, store everything separately and mix just before frying.

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Q: What dipping sauces go well with them?
A: Try Greek yogurt, sour cream, tzatziki, marinara, or garlic aioli.

Nutrition Info (Approx. Per Fritter)

Note: Values are estimates and may vary based on size and ingredients.

Calories: 90

Protein: 5g

Fat: 6g

Carbs: 5g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 1g

Sodium: 150mg

Conclusion

These Cheesy Zucchini Fritters are everything a good fritter should be—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh zucchini flavor. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or light lunch, they deliver satisfaction in every bite. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, they’re easy to customize and a great way to sneak more veggies into your meal.

Serve them hot and watch them disappear in seconds. Perfect for summer, potlucks, brunches—or just because!