This zucchini grilled cheese is a fun twist on a classic favorite! With layers of melty cheese and thinly sliced zucchini, it’s cheesy goodness with extra veggies. Yum!
I love making this when I want a quick snack that feels a bit fancy. Plus, my kids think the zucchini is just part of the cheese, so we’re all happy! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Grated zucchini gives the grilled cheese a lovely flavor. If you’re out of zucchini, you could use yellow squash as a substitute, which works just as well.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind everything together. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or gluten-free flour if you’re avoiding gluten.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a delicious kick. If you want a milder flavor, go with mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese is a good alternative if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Butter: Essential for cooking! I recommend using salted butter for that extra flavor. You can swap it with olive oil or vegan butter if needed.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Grilled Cheese Isn’t Soggy?
One common issue is excess moisture from the zucchini, which can make your grilled cheese soggy. Here’s how to handle it:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean towel or cheesecloth.
- Twist the towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible—this step is super important!
- Mix the dried zucchini with the other ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a good batter.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a crispy and delicious Zucchini Grilled Cheese that holds its shape. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Zucchini Grilled Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Patties:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for zucchini)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Zucchini Grilled Cheese recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. You’ll spend a few minutes squeezing moisture from the zucchini and mixing the batter, then cooking the patties will take around 10 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis. Then, take the grated zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist it tightly to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is really important to ensure your grilled cheese isn’t soggy!
2. Make the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried zucchini with the salt, flour, egg, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything together well until you have a nice, thick batter that holds together.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt, making sure it coats the bottom of the pan. This will give your patties a lovely golden brown color!
4. Cook the Zucchini Patties:
Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop some of the batter and spoon it into the skillet. Flatten it gently into a round shape. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your zucchini patty. Carefully add another 1/4 cup of the batter on top and press down lightly to form a sandwich-like shape. This helps keep the cheese nice and gooey inside!
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the grilled cheese patty and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. You want it to be golden brown and the cheese to melt deliciously.
7. Repeat the Process:
Continue the cooking process with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the skillet as necessary to keep things from sticking. You can make more delicious zucchini grilled cheese sandwiches!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once all your grilled cheese sandwiches are done, take them out of the skillet and let them cool for about a minute. This will make them easier to cut.
9. Cut and Enjoy!
Slice each grilled cheese into halves or quarters and serve while warm. Enjoy your tasty, cheesy zucchini grilled cheese!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but it’s essential to thaw and drain it thoroughly first! Place the frozen zucchini in a colander and let it sit at room temperature until thawed. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the batter.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to adjust the quantity slightly if the consistency looks too runny; gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore their crispiness.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Batter?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some finely chopped herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. You could also add cooked bacon bits or other types of cheese for a different twist on your Zucchini Grilled Cheese!
