Get ready for a fun twist on your classic grilled cheese! This Zucchini Grilled Cheese is filled with gooey cheese and tasty zucchini between crispy bread, making it a yummy snack or meal.
Honestly, who knew veggies could be this cheesy and delicious? I often make it when I’m craving comfort food but want to sneak in some greens. It’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis give the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have them, you can use yellow squash or even grated carrots for a sweeter taste. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture to keep patties firm!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp shredded cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, mozzarella is great, or you could try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard, but you can swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or even almond flour for a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly.
Green Onions: These add a fresh bite to the mixture. If you don’t have them, finely chopped regular onions can be used instead, though you might want to use them sparingly as they’re stronger. Chives can also be a lovely alternative.
How Do I Properly Squeeze Zucchini for Grilled Cheese?
One key step is squeezing the moisture out of the grated zucchini. This prevents soggy patties and helps them hold together better. Here’s how:
- After grating the zucchini, place it in the center of a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Gather the edges of the towel and twist it to create a pouch. Make sure to apply some pressure!
- Squeeze until you see water running out. Aim for removing as much excess liquid as possible.
Trust me, it makes a big difference in the final result!
How to Make Zucchini Grilled Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Patties:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- Additional cheese slices (optional, for extra creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty meal option. Perfect for a lunch or a snack, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as you can. This step is crucial to avoid soggy patties!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, the egg, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a non-stick skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of butter and let it melt until bubbly and hot. This will give your patties a nice golden color!
4. Cook the Patties:
Once the skillet is ready, scoop about 1/4 cup of the zucchini mixture and carefully place it into the skillet, pressing it down into a flat patty shape. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until it turns golden brown.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the patty over using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. If you’d like extra creaminess, now is the time to place a slice of cheese on top so it can melt beautifully.
6. Repeat and Serve:
Keep repeating the frying process with the remaining zucchini mixture, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. Once all the patties are cooked and crispy, stack them up on a plate. Serve these warm with a dipping sauce or salad on the side for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy your zucchini grilled cheese goodness!
Can I Substitute the Cheddar Cheese with Another Type?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and melting qualities, but they will still create a delicious grilled cheese experience!
What If I Don’t Have Green Onions?
No problem! You can substitute green onions with chopped chives or even finely diced regular onions if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to use them sparingly as they can have a stronger flavor than green onions.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Grilled Cheese Patties?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or skillet to get them warm and crispy; microwaving may make them a bit soggy!
Can I Make the Mixture in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a good stir before cooking, as the ingredients may settle. Cooking them right before serving will give you the best flavor and texture!
