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Cheesy Ranch Zucchini Garlic Bites

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These crispy, cheesy zucchini bites are packed with ranch and garlic flavor, making them a crave-worthy snack or appetizer. Golden on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or sneaking extra veggies into your day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 14 oz), grated and squeezed dry
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Grate zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place in a colander, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  2. Gather zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible until almost dry.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine squeezed zucchini, cheddar, parmesan, eggs, ranch seasoning, garlic, panko, flour, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until well combined. If mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  5. Use a 1.5-tbsp cookie scoop or spoon to form mixture into balls. Place 2 inches apart on baking sheet and gently flatten to about 3/4-inch thick.
  6. Lightly mist tops with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. For air fryer: cook in batches at 375°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway.
  7. Bites are done when golden-brown, slightly puffed, and cheese is bubbly. If browning too fast, tent with foil.
  8. Let cool for 3-5 minutes on pan before serving.
  9. Serve warm with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dip. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best crispiness.

Notes

Drain zucchini thoroughly for crisp bites. Mix just until combined to avoid toughness. Use parchment or silicone mats for easy cleanup. For gluten-free, swap panko and flour for GF alternatives. Make ahead and freeze unbaked bites for quick snacks. Serve with ranch, marinara, or aioli for dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini bites, ranch, cheesy snack, garlic, appetizer, vegetarian, crispy, party food, kid-friendly, oven-baked

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/cheesy-ranch-zucchini-garlic-bites-recipe-easy-crispy-snack-ideas/