This Zucchini Grilled Cheese is a fun twist on the classic sandwich! With gooey cheese and thin slices of zucchini, it’s both tasty and a little healthier.
Sometimes, I forget there’s zucchini in there because it’s just so cheesy! Pair it with your favorite soup, and you’ve got a delightful meal ready in no time. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show! Zucchini adds moisture and a subtle flavor. If you can’t find zucchini, try yellow squash for a similar result. Just make sure to drain it well like you would zucchini!
Cheeses: Parmesan gives a nice umami flavor while cheddar adds melty goodness. If you’re dairy-free, swap in vegan cheese for an equally tasty version. You can also mix different cheeses like mozzarella for a stretchier texture!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs help achieve a crispy texture on the outside. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but you might miss that extra crunch. For gluten-free options, use ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent. If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as an effective substitute.
Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs can really enhance the flavor. I love using fresh basil or chives. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work too—just use about a third of the amount.
How Can I Properly Drain Zucchini for This Recipe?
To ensure your zucchini grilled cheese patties don’t turn soggy, it’s crucial to remove excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to do it:
- After grating the zucchini, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out moisture.
- Next, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist it to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is key!
- Once drained, return the zucchini to your bowl and mix with your other ingredients. This will help your patties hold together better when cooking!
Taking this extra step will help you achieve a crispy, delicious texture in your dish!
How to Make Zucchini Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Patties:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Butter or olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (like basil or chives) for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Total time is roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a bowl. Once grated, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will help release some of the excess water, making your patties less soggy.
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After the zucchinis have sat for 10 minutes, it’s time to get rid of that extra moisture. Take the grated zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze tightly to remove as much water as possible. Transfer the drained zucchini back into your bowl.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Now, add the black pepper, Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg to the bowl with the zucchini. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are combined and form a nice mixture.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet over medium heat and add about a tablespoon of butter or olive oil to it. Let it heat up a little so your patties can get nice and crispy.
5. Form the Patties:
Take about 1/4 cup of the zucchini mixture and shape it into a patty. Gently place it in the skillet, pressing down slightly to flatten it. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.
6. Cook Until Golden Brown:
Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
7. Drain and Cool:
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them cool on paper towels for a moment. This will help absorb any excess grease.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the patties warm on their own, or turn them into a delicious grilled cheese sandwich! Simply place a second patty on top of one to create a “sandwich” with melted cheese in the middle. Add fresh herbs for extra flavor if you like!
Enjoy your delightful Zucchini Grilled Cheese!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can try using shredded carrots or yellow squash as a substitute for zucchini. Just make sure to remove excess moisture similarly by salting and squeezing them out to maintain the right texture for your patties.
Can I Make These Patties Vegan?
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Zucchini Grilled Cheese Patties?
Yes, these patties freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and they’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen!
