Learn how to quickly and easily make zucchini fritters with cheese to make use of an abundant zucchini supply. Get the tips for making this cheesy zucchini fritters recipe as a quick summer side dish or a dish to serve any time of the year. Use fresh or frozen zucchini with this fritters recipe. If you have an overwhelming amount of zucchini, this tasty recipe can be a game-changer. Never dread a prolific zucchini crop again with this crispy zucchini fritters recipe. Need to use a large quantity of zucchini? Good news! This recipe may be doubled or even tripled. Get ready to make the best zucchini fritters recipe ever!
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My Zucchini Backstory
My zucchini backstory is probably similar to most people’s. Zucchini grows quite well in my zone 8 garden, and over the years I have tried many different ways to use it. Can you relate? I have even experimented with a variety of dipping sauces to encourage family members to help do their part to make use of our zucchini crop. If you have already made canned spaghetti sauce with zucchini snuck into it, zucchini bread, or other zucchini baked goods and would like to try another fabulous zucchini recipe, you are in the right place. Try this easy recipe for zucchini fritters with cheese!
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Equipment Needed for Zucchini Fritters with Cheese
Although you could shred the zucchini and grate the onion by hand, a much easier way is to use a food processor. This Cuisinart model is one of my favorite small kitchen appliances. It also works well for grating the cheese in this recipe.
You will also need some basic kitchen equipment like a colander for draining the zucchini, a mixing bowl, mixing spoon, a skillet or electric frying pan, a spatula, and some paper towels. No colander? Just place the zucchini shreds between layers of paper towels and twist the paper towels over the kitchen sink to wring out the liquid.
Ingredients for Zucchini Fritters with Cheese
1 and 1/2 cups shredded zucchini (skin left on)
3/4 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers or other similar cracker (about 1/2 sleeve)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 egg
3 tablespoons grated yellow onion
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt blend (or 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper)
2 tablespoons canola, olive, or vegetable oil for frying
Directions for Zucchini Fritters with Cheese
Shred enough zucchini for 1 and 1/2 cups. Put the zucchini shreds in a colander and press down with a paper towel. The liquid should drain. (Blot out as much moisture as possible in order to get crispy zucchini fritters.)
Transfer the zucchini shreds to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add all other ingredients and stir to combine. Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow the crackers to soften and the mixture ingredients to bind together.
Heat the oil in a skillet or electric frying pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes. While the oil is heating, shape the cheesy zucchini fritter mixture into 2 or 3 inch balls. Flatten slightly with your hand to form a zucchini patty or cake shape. Note: If you make the fritters into 1 inch balls, then flatten, you could call them cheesy zucchini bites.
Place the zucchini fritters in the oil, spacing at least 1 inch apart. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip over with a spatula and cook for 2 minutes more. When the time is up, remove the zucchini fritters from the pan and drain on a plate covered with paper towels. This zucchini fritters recipe makes 6-8 zucchini fritters. Remember, the recipe can be doubled or tripled to use even more of the delicious zucchini squash.
What Pairs Well with Zucchini Fritters?
Zucchini fritters are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with various accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. Here are a few suggestions for what pairs well with zucchini fritters:
Dips and Sauces: Serve zucchini fritters with a flavorful dipping sauce or sauce to enhance their taste. Make easy campfire sauce, homemade fry sauce, avocado crema, dill dip, onion dip, or seafood dip. Homemade honey mustard sauce goes well with cheesy zucchini fritters, as does store-bought ranch dressing, Thai chili sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and thousand island dressing with bacon. Some other popular options include tzatziki sauce, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or even a simple marinara sauce. These dips provide a tangy or creamy contrast to the crispy fritters.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream on top of zucchini fritters adds a cool and creamy element that complements the crispy texture. You can also mix in some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
Fresh Salad: A nice berry mandarin tossed salad or another side salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm fritters. Consider serving zucchini fritters alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, you can make a salad with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and a lemony dressing.
Soup: Try serving cheesy zucchini fritters with tangy Greek lemon chicken orzo soup or sweet and sour cabbage soup. French onion soup, tomato butternut squash soup, or lentil ham soup would also pair well with these cheesy zucchini morsels.
Salsa or Salsa Verde: For a vibrant and zesty accompaniment, pair zucchini fritters with a homemade salsa or salsa verde. The combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, herbs, and a hint of spice can elevate the flavors of the fritters.
Grains or Bread: If you prefer a heartier meal, you can serve zucchini fritters with a side of cooked grains like quinoa, rice, or couscous. Alternatively, serve them alongside homemade rolls, crusty bread or pita bread for a satisfying meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables make a delicious and healthy accompaniment to zucchini fritters. You can roast vegetables like red skin potatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Fresh Herbs and Citrus: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill over the fritters for added freshness. Squeezing a bit of lemon or lime juice over the fritters just before serving can also provide a tangy and citrusy kick.
Remember, the choice of accompaniments can vary depending on your personal preferences and the overall meal you’re planning. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the combinations that you enjoy the most!
People serve many different items with zucchini fritters. What are some of your favorite zucchini fritter companions? For dessert, how about some chilled pea pickin’ cake? I’d enjoy learning about your favorite fried zucchini partners as well.
Common Questions About Cheesy Zucchini Fritters
Can I make air fryer zucchini fritters with cheese?
Yes, zucchini fritters may be made in an air fryer. Follow the recipe and combine all of the ingredients except the oil. Brush the oil on the air fryer tray or spray the cheesy zucchini fritters with cooking spray before putting in the tray. Cook the cheesy zucchini fritters in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 5 minutes. Open the air fryer and turn the cheesy zucchini fritters over. Cook for another 5 minutes.
What kind of cheese besides cheddar works well in cheesy zucchini fritters?
Besides cheddar, there are several other types of cheese that work well in cheesy zucchini fritters. Here are a few options:
Parmesan: Parmesan cheese adds a delicious nutty and savory flavor to the fritters. Grate some Parmesan and mix it into the fritter mixture or sprinkle it on top before frying for an extra cheesy crust.
Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese has a mild flavor and melts well, making it a great choice for cheesy zucchini fritters. You can either mix grated mozzarella into the fritter mixture or place a thin slice of mozzarella on top of each fritter after turning during the final few minutes of cooking, cover the skillet so the cheese melts, and you will have an extra cheesy zucchini fritter.
Feta: Feta cheese has a tangy and salty taste that can add a unique flavor profile to zucchini fritters. Crumble some feta cheese into the fritter mixture for bursts of flavor throughout or sprinkle it on top as a garnish.
Gruyère: Gruyère cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet taste that pairs well with zucchini. Grate some Gruyère and mix it into the fritter mixture to add depth of flavor and a creamy texture.
Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack cheese is mild and slightly creamy, making it a versatile choice for zucchini fritters. Grate Monterey Jack and incorporate it into the fritter mixture for a gooey and melty cheese filling.
Swiss: Swiss cheese has a distinct nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It melts well and can give a rich and creamy texture to the fritters. Grated Swiss cheese can be mixed into the fritter batter or used as a topping.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations of cheeses to find your preferred flavor. Keep in mind that the moisture content of different cheeses can vary, so you may need to adjust the amount of binding ingredients (like crackers or eggs) accordingly to maintain the right consistency of the fritter mixture.
Why do my zucchini fritters fall apart?
Zucchini fritters can sometimes fall apart for a few reasons. Here are some common reasons why it may be happening:
Excess moisture: Zucchini has a high water content, and if it’s not properly drained, it can release excess moisture while cooking. This can make the fritters soggy and prone to falling apart. To avoid this, after grating the zucchini, squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a colander and paper towels.
Inadequate binding agents: Binding agents like eggs, cheese, and crackers help hold the ingredients together in fritters. If you’re not using enough of these binding agents, your fritters may not have enough structure to stay intact. Make sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and use the recommended amount of binding agents.
Insufficient resting time: Allowing the mixture to rest before cooking is important as it gives the ingredients time to bind together. In this recipe, resting allows the crackers to hydrate and the ingredients to meld, resulting in a more cohesive mixture. If you skip this step, the fritters may be more likely to fall apart. Typically, letting the mixture rest for about 10-15 minutes before cooking can help.
Improper cooking technique: The way you cook the fritters can also affect their stability. If the heat is too high, the exterior may cook too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked and causing the fritters to fall apart when you flip them. To prevent this, cook the fritters over medium heat, allowing them to cook evenly and develop a golden crust before flipping.
Insufficient binding ingredients: Along with eggs, grated cheese, and crackers, you can add other ingredients to help bind the fritters. Common additions include breadcrumbs, flour, or even a small amount of cornstarch. These ingredients contribute to the overall structure of the fritters and prevent them from falling apart.
By addressing these potential issues, you should be able to improve the stability of your zucchini fritters and prevent them from falling apart.
Why are my fritters soggy in the middle?
If your fritters are turning out soggy in the middle, it typically indicates that they are not cooked through properly. Here are a few possible reasons why this might be happening:
Excess moisture in the ingredients: As previously noted, zucchini, in particular, has a high water content, and if it’s not properly drained before using it in the fritter mixture, it can release moisture while cooking. This excess moisture can lead to a soggy interior. Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before incorporating it into the fritter mixture.
Thick fritter batter: If your fritter batter is too thick, it may take longer to cook through, leading to a soggy center. The outer portion may get overcooked while the inside remains undercooked. Try adjusting the consistency of your batter by adding a little more liquid (e.g., water, milk, or beaten egg) to achieve a slightly thinner consistency that will cook evenly, or press into a flatter shape for cooking.
Insufficient cooking time: Fritters need enough time to cook all the way through. If you’re cooking them at too high a temperature or for too short a time, the exterior may brown quickly while the center remains uncooked. Reduce the heat to medium and allow the fritters to cook for a slightly longer time, ensuring they are cooked evenly and thoroughly.
Overcrowding the pan: When cooking fritters, it’s essential to give them enough space in the pan. Overcrowding the pan can cause the fritters to steam rather than fry, leading to a soft and soggy texture. If you are doubling or tripling this recipe, cook the fritters in batches, leaving enough space between them for proper heat circulation and browning.
Inadequate binding ingredients: Binding agents like eggs, cheese, and crackers not only help hold the fritters together but also contribute to their texture. If your fritters lack sufficient binding ingredients, they may turn out softer and soggier. Double-check the recipe and ensure you’re using the recommended amounts of eggs, cheese, and crackers to provide structure and help the fritters cook evenly.
Can zucchini fritters be reheated?
Yes, zucchini fritters can be reheated. While they are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can reheat them to regain some of their texture and flavor. Here are a few methods you can use to reheat zucchini fritters:
Oven or Toaster Oven: Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C). Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior becomes crisp again.
Skillet or Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the fritters and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through and the exterior becomes crispy.
Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, it can be a great option for reheating fritters. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the fritters in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5-8 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior becomes crispy.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, it’s important to keep in mind that reheated fritters may not be as crispy as when they were freshly cooked. However, these methods should help you warm them up and enjoy them again. To enhance the flavor and texture, consider serving reheated fritters with fresh toppings, dips, or sauces to add moisture and bring back some of the original flavors.
How do you keep cheesy zucchini fritters fresh?
To store cheesy zucchini fritters and keep them fresh, follow these tips:
Proper Storage: Allow the fritters to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. If stacking the fritters, separate them with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking.
Refrigeration: Store the fritters in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for a longer period. They can typically last for up to 2-3 days when properly refrigerated.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the fritters, reheat them using one of the methods mentioned earlier. Reheating will help restore some of their texture and flavors.
Freezing: If you have a large batch of fritters or want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Ensure the fritters are fully cooled before freezing. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fritters can last for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating Frozen Fritters: When you’re ready to eat the frozen fritters, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat them using one of the methods mentioned earlier. Note that reheating frozen fritters may result in a slightly less crispy texture compared to fresh ones.
Remember that zucchini fritters are best enjoyed fresh when they are crispy and flavorful. While they can be stored and reheated, their texture may not be exactly the same as when they were freshly cooked.
Make Ahead Zucchini Fritters with Cheese
Since zucchini fritters are best eaten freshly cooked, how can you prepare them ahead of time? You can make the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until needed. You can even shape the mixture into patties and place on a wax paper-lined tray or plate, then cover and refrigerate until needed. This method also works well if you are making zucchini fritters for just two people and you don’t use all of the mixture. Just store the leftover zucchini mixture in the refrigerator until you are ready to make some more. It works perfectly every time.
Zucchini Fritters with Cheese
Equipment
- 1 colander
- Food processor or grater
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 Skillet or electric frying pan
- 1 Spatula
- paper towels
Ingredients
- 1½ cups shredded zucchini skin left on
- ¾ cup finely crushed Ritz crackers or other similar cracker about ½ of a sleeve
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons grated yellow onion
- ½ teaspoon seasoning salt blend or ¼ 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons canola, olive, or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Shred enough zucchini for 1 and 1/2 cups. Put the zucchini shreds in a colander and press down with a paper towel. The liquid should drain. (Blot out as much moisture as possible in order to get crispy zucchini fritters.)
- Transfer the zucchini shreds to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add all other ingredients and stir to combine.
- Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow the crackers to soften and the mixture ingredients to bind together.
- Heat the oil in a skillet or electric frying pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes.
- While the oil is heating, shape the cheesy zucchini fritter mixture into 2 or 3 inch balls. Flatten slightly with your hand to form a zucchini patty or cake shape. Note: If you make the fritters into 1 inch balls, then flatten, you could call them cheesy zucchini bites.
- Place the zucchini fritters in the oil, spacing at least 1 inch apart. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip over with a spatula and cook for 2 minutes more.
- When the time is up, remove the zucchini fritters from the pan and drain on a plate covered with paper towels.
More Food Inspiration
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If you would like even more recipe ideas, consider following my Easy Recipes board on Pinterest. Have a fabulous day, and have a good time making these easy zucchini fritters with cheese!
Lisa Mitchell is a wife, mom, and school librarian who likes to create and share recipes, often using fresh ingredients from her family’s small Pacific Northwest farm. To get more easy recipes, click on over to the Food page.
I will have to try those! 🙂 Thanks again Lisa!!
Sure thing! These zucchini fritters with cheese disappear quickly whenever I make them.
Yum! These easy cheesy zucchini fritters sound like a fabulous bite-sized appetizer perfect for a summer treat. My sister grows zucchini and always looking for a new and fun way to use them up! I’ll send this recipe her way!
Great! With this zucchini fritters recipe, I no longer dread returning to my garden after a vacation. Large zucchini? Cheesy zucchini fritters to the rescue!=)
I love zucchini and cheese, and I find this easy and quick recipe for zucchini fritters with cheese fantastic. I can’t wait to try it. Thanks for sharing!
You are most welcome. If you like zucchini and cheese, then this cheesy zucchini fritters recipe is just the thing for you. Enjoy!
I have a lot of zucchini, and this recipe was just what I was looking for. Thank you for the clear instructions for zucchini fritters with cheese. I know I will use this recipe often!
I am so glad you will be able to use this recipe for zucchini fritters with cheese. It has been a big hit in my family.