Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites

Oh, these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites! Let me tell you, they have become an absolute sensation in our household. Initially, I was on a mission to find creative ways to use up the abundance of zucchini from our garden. We were swimming in zucchini, and while zucchini bread is delicious, I wanted something savory, something snackable, and something that even my picky eaters would enjoy. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of zucchini bites. After a few tweaks and experiments, this recipe for Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites was born, and let me just say, it was a game-changer. The first time I made them, they vanished in minutes. My kids, who are usually suspicious of anything green, devoured them. My husband, a self-proclaimed snack connoisseur, declared them “addictively delicious.” The crispy edges, the tender zucchini inside, the burst of garlic and cheese – it’s a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. Since then, these little bites have become a regular feature on our appetizer menu, a go-to snack for movie nights, and even a sneaky way to get some extra veggies into our meals. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, look no further. These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites are about to become your new favorite too!

Ingredients

• Fresh Zucchini: (2 medium-sized) – The star of the show! Choose firm zucchini for the best texture. They provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a wonderful tender interior to the bites.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: (1 cup) – Adds a sharp, savory, and familiar cheesy flavor. Cheddar melts beautifully and creates that classic cheesy pull we all love. You can use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar depending on your preference.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: (½ cup) – Provides a salty, nutty, and umami-rich depth of flavor. Parmesan cheese also contributes to the crispy exterior of the bites when baked.
• Breadcrumbs: (½ cup, Panko or regular) – Adds texture and helps bind the ingredients together. Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier coating, while regular breadcrumbs work just as well for a slightly denser bite.
• Large Egg: (1) – Acts as a binder, holding all the ingredients together and providing structure to the zucchini bites.
• Garlic: (2 cloves, minced) – Essential for that pungent, savory garlic flavor that complements the zucchini and cheese perfectly. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best taste.
• Fresh Parsley: (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color. Parsley brightens up the flavor profile and adds a touch of freshness.
• Dried Oregano: (1 teaspoon) – Provides a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic Mediterranean flavor that pairs wonderfully with zucchini and garlic.
• Salt: (½ teaspoon) – Enhances all the flavors in the recipe and balances the overall taste. Adjust to your preference.
• Black Pepper: (¼ teaspoon) – Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its bolder taste.
• Olive Oil: (for greasing) – Prevents the zucchini bites from sticking to the baking sheet and helps them crisp up nicely on the bottom.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Trim off the ends and then grate them using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial! Excess moisture will make your zucchini bites soggy and prevent them from crisping up properly. Keep squeezing until you can’t extract any more liquid. You’ll be surprised how much water zucchini holds!
2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper is a great option as it also prevents sticking and makes transferring the bites easier later on.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
4. Add Egg and Mix Well: Crack the egg into the bowl and mix everything together thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is evenly moistened. The egg will act as a binder, ensuring the bites hold their shape. Don’t overmix, just mix until everything is just combined.
5. Form the Zucchini Bites: Take about a tablespoon of the zucchini mixture and roll it into a small ball or form it into a slightly flattened disc. You can make them any shape you like, but consistent size will ensure even cooking. Place each bite onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. This allows for proper air circulation and even browning.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini bites are golden brown and crispy on the edges and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them nicely browned but not burnt.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the zucchini bites cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving plate. This allows them to firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximately 3-4 bites. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)

• Serving Size: 3-4 bites
• Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per serving – A relatively light and satisfying snack, perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
• Protein: 6-8 grams per serving – Provides a good source of protein from the cheese and egg, contributing to satiety and muscle building.
• Fat: 8-10 grams per serving – Includes healthy fats from the cheese and olive oil, which are important for energy and nutrient absorption.
• Carbohydrates: 6-8 grams per serving – Primarily from the zucchini and breadcrumbs, providing energy and some fiber.
• Fiber: 1-2 grams per serving – Zucchini contributes a small amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes – This includes grating the zucchini, squeezing out the moisture, chopping the parsley and garlic, and mixing the ingredients. The prep work is relatively quick and straightforward.
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes – Baking time in the oven. During this time, you can relax or prepare other parts of your meal.
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes – From start to finish, you can have these delicious zucchini bites ready in under an hour, making them a great option for a quick snack or appetizer.

How to Serve

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Appetizer:
  • Arrange them beautifully on a platter for parties or gatherings.
  • Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara sauce, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or tzatziki sauce.
  • Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an elegant touch.
• Snack:
  • Enjoy them as a satisfying afternoon snack or a late-night treat.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes for a healthy and flavorful midday snack.
  • They are perfect for movie nights or game days.
• Side Dish:
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a balanced meal.
  • Pair them with pasta dishes or salads for added flavor and texture.
  • They make a great vegetarian side dish option.
• Breakfast or Brunch:
  • Serve alongside scrambled eggs or an omelet for a savory breakfast.
  • Add them to a brunch spread for a unique and tasty offering.
• Kids’ Meals:
  • A fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables for picky eaters.
  • Serve with ketchup or a kid-friendly dipping sauce.
  • Cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for younger children.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites

1. Don’t Skip Squeezing the Zucchini: This is the MOST important tip! Removing excess moisture is crucial for crispy bites. Be thorough and squeeze out as much water as you possibly can.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a much more robust and flavorful garlic taste compared to garlic powder. It really makes a difference in the overall flavor of the bites.
3. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack would all be delicious additions or substitutions. A blend of cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile.
4. Herb It Up: While parsley and oregano are classic, try adding other herbs like fresh thyme, basil, or chives to customize the flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a touch of heat.
5. Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, almond flour for a gluten-free option, or even finely ground oats. Panko breadcrumbs will give the crispiest result.
6. Make Ahead and Freeze: These zucchini bites can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the bites, but don’t bake them. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
7. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the zucchini mixture before forming the bites and adjust the salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs to your liking. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so personalize the seasoning to suit your palate.
8. Crispier Bites Secret: For extra crispy zucchini bites, try broiling them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking time. Keep a very close eye on them to prevent burning, as they can brown quickly under the broiler.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

A: While fresh zucchini is highly recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini if you thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Frozen zucchini tends to be wetter than fresh, so you’ll need to be extra diligent in removing excess water. Fresh zucchini will always yield a better result.

Q2: My zucchini bites are soggy, what did I do wrong?

A: Soggy zucchini bites are usually caused by not removing enough moisture from the zucchini. Make sure you squeeze the grated zucchini very thoroughly using a kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Another possible reason could be overcrowding the baking sheet, which steams the bites instead of allowing them to crisp up. Ensure there’s enough space between each bite.

Q3: Can I make these zucchini bites gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make these zucchini bites gluten-free. Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond flour, or finely ground oats. Always double-check that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Q4: How long do leftover zucchini bites last?

A: Leftover zucchini bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are best reheated in an oven or air fryer to regain some of their crispiness. Microwaving them can make them a bit soggy.

Q5: Can I add meat to these zucchini bites?

A: While this recipe is vegetarian, you can certainly add cooked and crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, or finely diced cooked ham to the mixture for a meaty twist. Ensure the meat is fully cooked and drained of excess fat before adding it to the zucchini mixture.

Q6: What dipping sauces go well with zucchini bites?

A: Many dipping sauces complement zucchini bites perfectly. Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, tzatziki sauce, pesto, hummus, or even a simple garlic aioli are all delicious options. Choose your favorite or offer a variety for your guests to choose from.

Q7: Can I make these zucchini bites ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also assemble the bites and freeze them unbaked as mentioned in the “Additional Tips” section. This makes them a great option for meal prepping or party planning.

Q8: Are these zucchini bites healthy?

A: These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Bites can be considered a relatively healthy snack or appetizer. They are packed with vegetables (zucchini), provide protein from cheese and egg, and are baked instead of fried. They are lower in calories and carbohydrates compared to many other appetizers. However, they do contain cheese, so moderation is still key as part of a balanced diet. You can also use reduced-fat cheese and whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier version.

Print