This Zucchini Grilled Cheese is a tasty twist on the classic! It features gooey cheese nestled between crispy slices of zucchini, making it a fun and healthy option for lunch.
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just grill the zucchini with cheese until melted and bubbly—you won’t believe how delicious this combo is! 🧀🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star of this dish. Check for firm, shiny skin and avoid any that are soft or wrinkled. If unavailable, yellow squash is a great substitution.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to try mozzarella, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese for a different taste. You can mix different cheeses for added depth.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but if you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Both can give a nice texture without the gluten.
Olive Oil: A staple for frying, but you can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point. If you’re keeping it light, cooking spray can help with less oil while still achieving crispiness.
How Do You Get the Zucchini to the Perfect Consistency?
Draining your shredded zucchini is super important. It helps to avoid soggy patties. To do this, place shredded zucchini in a clean towel, twist it up, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. It might seem tedious, but it makes a big difference!
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Wrap the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and twist to squeeze out excess water.
- Make sure to aim for a dry mixture before adding in other ingredients to help the patties hold together.
How to Make Zucchini Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Patties:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups shredded)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Additional cheese slices (for layering, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking. In total, you can expect to spend about 30-35 minutes to whip up these delicious zucchini grilled cheese patties.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
First, shred the zucchinis using a grater or a food processor. Once shredded, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This will help your patties to hold together better when cooking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with the salt, flour, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional paprika. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and the egg as well. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined and form a thick mixture.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats up, shape the zucchini mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Carefully place the patties in the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Add Extra Cheese (Optional):
If you want that extra cheesy goodness, add an additional slice of cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking. Let it melt slightly before removing the patties from the skillet.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once your zucchini patties are cooked, stack them up and serve them as a sandwich or enjoy them on their own as a delicious side dish. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty zucchini grilled cheese!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt at different rates, so cooking times may vary slightly.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly, so adjust the amount if needed, starting with a little less and adding more as necessary to achieve the right consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them back in a skillet over low heat or microwave them for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.
Can I Freeze the Zucchini Patties?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place cooked and cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
