Crispy Zucchini Grilled Cheese 🥒🧀

By: Rabia

The low-carb, veggie-packed grilled cheese melt you didn’t know you needed — golden, crispy zucchini “bread” hugging layers of gooey cheddar.

📝 Recipe Card

Hook

Crispy Zucchini Grilled Cheese – A genius low-carb twist on the classic comfort food. Zucchini replaces bread for a crispy, cheesy melt that’s both indulgent and veggie-forward.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 2 sandwiches (4 halves)

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Dietary Badges

🥒 Low-Carb | 🧀 Comfort Food | 🥗 Veggie-Packed

Ingredients

  • 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

  • ¼ cup cornstarch (or almond flour for keto-friendly)

  • Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. Prep Zucchini: Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This ensures the “bread” gets crispy.

  2. Make Zucchini Batter: In a bowl, mix zucchini, egg, scallions, Parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until combined.

  3. Form Zucchini Slices: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Divide mixture into 4 portions, shaping each into a flat round “bread slice” in the skillet. Cook until golden and firm, about 4–5 minutes per side.

  4. Assemble Sandwiches: Place 2 zucchini rounds on a baking sheet or skillet, sprinkle 1 cup cheddar evenly between them, and top with remaining rounds.

  5. Melt & Serve: Return to skillet or oven on low heat. Cover and cook until cheese is fully melted and sandwiches are crispy on both sides. Slice and serve hot.

Recommended  Savory Beef and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole – Cheesy, Hearty & Perfect for Comfort Dinners

Brief Introduction

This zucchini grilled cheese is the perfect example of how comfort food can be made healthier without losing the indulgence. The zucchini “bread” is crispy and savory, while the gooey cheddar makes it just as satisfying as the real thing — but with far fewer carbs!

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

  • Step 1 – Squeeze Zucchini Dry: Removing moisture is crucial for crispiness.

  • Step 2 – Zucchini Batter: Parmesan + egg act as the binder, creating structure.

  • Step 3 – Crisping Rounds: Cook like pancakes until golden brown.

  • Step 4 – Melt & Finish: Layer with cheddar, melt, and crisp both sides.

Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips

  • Zucchini: Medium zucchinis work best; don’t skip squeezing out water.

  • Parmesan: Adds sharpness and binding power; swap with Pecorino Romano.

  • Cornstarch: Keeps texture crisp; for keto, use almond flour or coconut flour.

  • Cheese Filling: Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack make great variations.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Keto Version: Swap cornstarch for almond flour.

  • Caprese Melt: Add fresh tomato slices and mozzarella between zucchini “bread.”

  • Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs and bacon for a zucchini breakfast sandwich.

  • Serving Ideas:

    • With tomato soup for a cozy lunch 🍅🥣

    • Cut into halves or quarters for a fun appetizer tray 🥢

    • Pair with a crisp salad for a balanced meal 🥗

Storage & Make-Ahead Info

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 days.

  • Reheat: Best reheated in skillet or oven at 375°F to keep crispy (avoid microwave).

  • Freezer: Freeze zucchini “bread” slices before assembling sandwiches; re-crisp before adding cheese.

FAQs

Q: Why did my zucchini bread turn soggy?
A: Too much moisture — make sure to squeeze zucchini thoroughly.

Recommended  Wayne Casserole 🌮🥘

Q: Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
A: Yes — bake zucchini rounds at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes — use vegan Parmesan + vegan cheddar shreds.

Personal Note

This recipe is my go-to when I want grilled cheese without the bread. It’s melty, crunchy, and indulgent — but also sneaks in an extra serving of veggies. Even picky eaters don’t realize it’s zucchini!

Call to Action

If you make this Crispy Zucchini Grilled Cheese, let me know! ⭐ Did you keep it classic cheddar, or try a fun filling like mozzarella + tomato? Share your version to inspire other grilled cheese lovers!

Rabia
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