Ingredients
To prepare cheesy zucchini bites, you will need the following ingredients:
2 medium zucchinis, grated
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or chives
Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for greasing
These ingredients are easy to find in any supermarket and can be adjusted based on your taste. For example, you can use different cheeses or add extra vegetables if you prefer a richer flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with silicone cups.
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much water as possible. This is an important step to ensure the bites come out firm and not watery.
- Transfer the grated zucchini to a large bowl.
- Add the eggs, mozzarella, cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, green onions, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Mix everything until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Scoop the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tray.
These little bites are at their best when served warm, but they also taste delicious at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Bites
Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is the key to achieving the right texture. Zucchini holds a lot of water, and skipping the squeezing step may cause your bites to fall apart or become soggy. Using a towel or cheese cloth helps extract more liquid than squeezing by hand.
Another useful tip is to shred the cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded bags. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives the bites a smoother, creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking additives that prevent complete melting.
You can adjust the herbs depending on what you enjoy. Fresh dill, parsley, basil, or chives all complement the flavor of zucchini. If you want a stronger taste, adding a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika can elevate the dish.
Variations to Try
This recipe is flexible, so you can customize it depending on what you have at home:
Turkey or chicken version: Add small pieces of cooked chicken or ground turkey.
Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Vegetable mix: Add grated carrots or finely chopped bell peppers.
Italian version: Use Italian seasoning and shredded provolone cheese.
Low-carb option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.
Each variation adds a unique twist while keeping the core flavor intact.
What to Serve With Zucchini Bites
These bites pair well with a variety of dishes. You can serve them:
Alongside grilled chicken or steak
With pasta dishes
As a snack with marinara sauce or ranch dip
With a fresh garden salad
As part of a brunch spread
Because they contain vegetables, cheese, and protein from the eggs, they can also be enjoyed on their own as a light meal.
Storage and Reheating
If you prepare a large batch, you can refrigerate leftovers for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes or until warm. This helps the bites regain their crispness better than microwaving.
They also freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in freezer bags or containers. When you are ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of cheese, herbs, and fresh zucchini makes this recipe flavorful and comforting. The baking method ensures the bites are soft inside and crispy at the edges. By balancing moisture and structure through ingredients like breadcrumbs and eggs, the final texture is close to perfect. These small bites are also visually appealing, especially when topped with fresh herbs.
This recipe is ideal for busy families, meal prepping, and anyone who wants to enjoy vegetables in a fun and tasty way. It is simple, affordable, and versatile enough to be adapted for different tastes and dietary preferences.