Cheesy Zucchini Bites

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

3 medium zucchini, grated
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
Cooking spray or a little olive oil

Instructions

1. Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater.
2. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is important because excess moisture can make the bites soft and difficult to shape.
3. Transfer the squeezed zucchini to a large mixing bowl.
4. Add mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, salt, and green onion.
5. Mix everything thoroughly until a thick mixture forms. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb some of the moisture.
6. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking oil.
7. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small balls or slightly flattened bites.
8. Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then carefully flip each bite.
10. Continue baking for another 8–12 minutes, until the outside is golden and crisp and the cheese is melted.
11. For extra browning, place them under the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully so they do not burn.
12. Let the bites cool for 3–5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with garlic mayo, ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Method

Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F). Place the zucchini bites in a single layer and lightly spray them with oil. Air fry for 10–14 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings:

Calories: 210–240 kcal
Protein: 12–14 g
Carbohydrates: 13–16 g
Fat: 11–14 g
Saturated Fat: 5–7 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Sugar: 3–4 g
Sodium: 450–600 mg
Cholesterol: 80–95 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on the cheese, breadcrumbs, zucchini size, and portion size.

Q&A

Q: Why are my zucchini bites watery?

A: Zucchini naturally contains a lot of water. Squeeze the grated zucchini very thoroughly before mixing. This is the most important step for firm bites.

Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?

A: Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before using.

Q: Can I make these without breadcrumbs?

A: Yes. You can replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or another suitable dry binder.

Q: Can I freeze zucchini bites?

A: Yes. Let them cool completely, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in an oven or air fryer until hot and crisp.

Q: Which cheese works best?

A: Mozzarella gives a stretchy texture, while cheddar and Parmesan add stronger flavor. A combination of all three works especially well.

Q: Can I make them ahead of time?

A: Yes. Shape the bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How do I make them extra crispy?

A: Remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and lightly spray the bites with oil before cooking.