Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These zucchini fritters are a simple and satisfying way to use up summer zucchini. By baking instead of frying, you reduce the oil and clean-up while still achieving that irresistible crisp texture. They’re great for meal prep, kid-friendly, and incredibly versatile—you can enjoy them hot, cold, or packed into a lunchbox. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in extra veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Zucchini
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Eggs
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All-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
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Grated Parmesan or shredded cheese
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Garlic (minced)
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Green onions or fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Baking powder (optional, for fluffiness)
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Olive oil spray or cooking spray (for baking)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
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In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, flour or breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using).
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Mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together when shaped—if it’s too wet, add more flour or breadcrumbs.
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Scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small patties or rounds.
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Place the fritters on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden and crispy.
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Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10–12 fritters.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour.
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Cheesy Kick: Add crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella for extra richness.
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Spicy Version: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
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Herb Boost: Add fresh basil, mint, or cilantro for unique flavor profiles.
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Low-Carb Option: Swap flour with almond or coconut flour for a keto-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy again.
You can also freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
FAQs
Why are my fritters soggy?
Excess moisture in the zucchini can cause sogginess. Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
Can I use yellow squash instead?
Absolutely. Yellow squash works just like zucchini and gives a slightly sweeter flavor.
What’s the best way to shape the fritters?
Use a spoon or your hands to form even-sized patties about ½ inch thick for best results.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is tender and adds color and nutrients. Just wash the zucchini well before grating.
What dipping sauces go well with these fritters?
Try sour cream, tzatziki, garlic aioli, or even marinara sauce for dipping.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, grated carrots, corn, or chopped spinach make great additions. Just be sure to adjust moisture accordingly.
Are these good for kids?
Yes, these fritters are kid-friendly and a great way to include more vegetables in their diet.
Can I fry these instead?
Yes, if you prefer, pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat until golden on both sides.
Can I serve these cold?
They’re best warm, but they can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature—especially in lunchboxes or picnics.
Conclusion
Baked Zucchini Fritters are an easy, flavorful, and healthy option for any meal or snack. With their golden crisp edges, tender centers, and vibrant flavor, they’re a guilt-free pleasure that’s sure to become a regular favorite. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or packed for later, these veggie-packed fritters are simple, satisfying, and always delicious.
Baked Zucchini Fritters
Baked Zucchini Fritters are a healthy, oven-baked alternative to traditional pan-fried fritters. They’re golden, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside—made with fresh zucchini, herbs, and cheese for a flavorful, veggie-packed snack or meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 fritters
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan or shredded cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional)
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Grate zucchini and place in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, eggs, flour or breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and baking powder if using. Mix until well combined.
- If mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs.
- Scoop out heaping tablespoons of the mixture and shape into patties.
- Place on the baking sheet and lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on both sides.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible for crispy fritters.Add more cheese or herbs to boost flavor.To make gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen and reheated easily.Great served with sour cream, tzatziki, or garlic sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg