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Cheesy Zucchini Fritter Bites with Easy Ranch Dip

cheesy zucchini fritter bites - featured image

These cheesy zucchini fritter bites are baked, not fried, for a lighter, crispier snack. Packed with sharp cheddar, parmesan, and fresh herbs, they’re perfect for sharing and come with a tangy homemade ranch dip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 14 oz), grated and squeezed dry
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond/oat flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Ranch Dip:
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible until almost dry.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine squeezed zucchini, cheddar cheese, parmesan, eggs, flour, panko, chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed. If mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon more flour; if too dry, add a splash of milk or water.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out batter into balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place on the sheet. Flatten slightly to about 1/2-inch thick and space 2 inches apart.
  4. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and crisp on the edges. Rotate tray halfway through for even cooking. For extra crunch, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  5. While fritters bake, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and salt and pepper for the ranch dip. Chill until ready to serve.
  6. Remove fritters from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Serve warm with ranch dip.

Notes

Drain zucchini thoroughly for crisp fritters. Use panko for extra crunch. Swap cheeses or herbs as desired. Fritters can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with substitutions. Freeze leftovers for easy snacks later.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, cheesy bites, ranch dip, baked appetizer, kid-friendly snack, party food, vegetarian, summer recipe, easy snack