Crispy Cheddar Zucchini Rounds

Zucchini has become a culinary darling in recent years, celebrated not just for its health benefits but also for its remarkable versatility in the kitchen. Whether grilled, sautéed, or baked, zucchini can seamlessly integrate into a wide array of dishes, making it an essential ingredient for both casual home cooks and professional chefs alike. Among the various ways to enjoy this summer squash, one recipe stands out for its delightful combination of flavors and textures: Cheesy Zucchini Crunch Bites. These bite-sized snacks are not only perfect as appetizers at parties but also make for a wholesome treat any time of the day.

Discover the irresistible flavor of Cheesy Zucchini Crunch Bites, a deliciously cheesy snack that's perfect for any occasion! These bite-sized treats combine healthy zucchini with rich cheese, delivering a satisfying crunch that will delight all snack lovers. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they're excellent as appetizers or a wholesome snack. Plus, you can tailor the recipe to your taste, making these crunchy bites a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy guilt-free snacking with this simple recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil spray for crisping

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Prepare Zucchini Rounds: Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice them into ½-inch-thick rounds and set them aside on a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Make the Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, add the shredded cheddar cheese.

Beat the Egg: In a separate bowl, crack the egg and whisk it until well beaten.

Coat the Zucchini: Take each zucchini round, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Finally, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top of each round for an extra cheesy finish.

Arrange and Spray: Place the coated zucchini rounds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to help them get crispy while baking.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden brown and crispy. Flip the rounds halfway through the cooking time to achieve even crispness.

Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack, paired with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. Enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings