Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a dish that's as delicious as it is easy to make? Look no further than these Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bites! Perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these little morsels are bursting with flavor and are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're looking for a quick appetizer, a healthy snack, or a delightful side dish, these bites are the answer. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you'll be savoring the irresistible taste of zucchini like never before. Get ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your zucchini bites cook evenly and become golden brown.
- Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent the bites from becoming soggy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Using your hands, form small patties or bites from the zucchini mixture, about 2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each bite to allow for even cooking.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each zucchini bite for added flavor and to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and firm to the touch. You may want to flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Once cooked, remove the zucchini bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bites as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They pair well with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a yogurt-based dip.
Tips
- Squeeze Out the Moisture: After grating the zucchinis, it's essential to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This prevents your bites from becoming soggy and ensures they hold their shape during baking.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are delicious, feel free to get creative! Try adding some Parmesan for a nutty flavor or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Shape Matters: When forming your bites, aim for uniform sizes (about 2 inches in diameter) to ensure even cooking. This way, every bite will be perfectly crispy.
- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil on top of each bite before baking will help them achieve that golden-brown color and crunchy texture we all love.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: These zucchini bites are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with dipping sauces. Marinara, ranch, or a tangy yogurt dip will complement their cheesy goodness perfectly.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just shape the bites and bake them when you're ready to serve for a fresh and warm appetizer.
- Keep an Eye on Them: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your zucchini bites as they bake. If they start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg
