This Grilled Cheese with Zucchini is a fun twist on a classic favorite! It’s gooey, cheesy, and packed with yummy veggies to make your sandwich feel a bit healthier.
The best part? You can sneak in some zucchini without anyone noticing, which is perfect if you’re trying to get more greens in your day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds flavor and moisture. You can swap it with yellow squash if you’re looking for a change, but keep in mind the taste will vary slightly.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If gluten-free options are needed, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Cheese: I love using cheddar for its sharp flavor and mozzarella for its melt-iness. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well.
Egg: The egg helps bind the mixture. If you want a vegan option, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until thick).
Garlic and Onion Powder: These spices add great flavor. Fresh minced garlic or finely chopped onions can also be used for a stronger taste.
How Do I Avoid Soggy Zucchini Patties?
Getting rid of excess moisture is key for crispy patties. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Twist the cloth to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Aim for a good amount of moisture removal to prevent sogginess.
- Let the grated zucchini sit for 5-10 minutes after squeezing for extra moisture to come out.
By following these steps, your patties will hold together better and have that perfect crispy texture!
How to Make Zucchini Grilled Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Zucchini Grilled Cheese recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a tasty snack or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. This is a fun task! After grating, grab a clean cloth or some paper towels, and squeeze the zucchini to remove excess moisture. This step is super important because it helps keep your patties from getting soggy.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until it’s all well combined and looks delicious!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Now it’s time to cook! Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Watch it carefully! You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the zucchini mixture.
4. Form the Patties:
Take about 1/3 cup of the zucchini mixture and form it into a patty. Place the patty in the hot skillet and press it down slightly with the back of a spatula to make it thicker. Repeat this with more portions, leaving space between each patty.
5. Cook the Patties:
Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are lovely and golden brown and crispy. If they start to stick, you can add a little more oil or butter to the skillet.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Once the patties are cooked to perfection, place a slice of cheese on top of each one (or more if you really love cheese!). Cover the skillet with a lid briefly to help the cheese melt into gooey goodness.
7. Assemble and Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy your creation! Stack the cheesy zucchini patties together and serve them warm. They make a fantastic snack or meal that’s packed with flavor and goodness!
Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Grilled Cheese! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite cheeses. Gouda, fontina, or even vegan cheese are great options. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics might change slightly, so choose cheeses that melt well for the best results.
What If My Zucchini Is Too Watery?
If your zucchini seems extra watery, you can salt it and let it sit for about 10 minutes before squeezing out the moisture. This extra step can help ensure your patties hold together and aren’t soggy. Just remember to adjust the salt in the recipe since you’re adding salt to the zucchini first!
Can I Make These Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini mixture ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Just ensure to give it a quick stir before cooking, as moisture may settle. Alternatively, you can also cook the patties and refrigerate them for later – reheat them in a skillet before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for a quick snack. If sizzling in the skillet, add a touch of oil to restore some crispiness!
