These Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks are oh-so-delicious! They are packed with melted cheese and fresh zucchini goodness, making them a perfect snack or side dish. Yum!
I love how crispy they get on the outside while staying soft on the inside. Honestly, I could snack on these all day. Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key here! You can use yellow squash if you like, or even mix different summer squashes for variety. Make sure to squeeze out the moisture to keep your breadsticks from getting soggy.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings gooeyness, while Parmesan adds a nice savory kick. If you’re a cheddar fan, it’s a great addition too! For a dairy-free version, try vegan cheese that melts well.
Flour: All-purpose flour holds everything together, but you can swap it with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if needed. Almond flour adds a nice flavor too, though it might change the texture a bit.
Herbs: I love using fresh parsley for color and flavor, but you can also use basil or cilantro depending on your taste. Dried herbs are fine too, just use a bit less since they’re more concentrated.
How Do You Prevent Soggy Zucchini Breadsticks?
The secret to avoiding sogginess is in proper moisture management! First, grate the zucchini, then place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze it tightly to remove as much water as possible. This will make a big difference in keeping your breadsticks firm.
- Use a fine grater for smaller pieces that cook better.
- Let the squeezed zucchini sit for a minute, then squeeze again if needed.
Following this step ensures your cheesy zucchini breadsticks are tasty without being mushy. Enjoy the crispy edges and cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Breadsticks:
- 4 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, expect around 45 minutes in total from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy treat that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, take a rectangular baking pan (around 9×13 inches) and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. This will help prevent the breadsticks from sticking.
2. Squeezing the Zucchini:
Next, grab those grated zucchinis and put them in a clean kitchen towel. This step is super important! Squeeze the towel tightly to remove as much moisture as you can. This helps keep the breadsticks from becoming soggy. Trust me, you want them nice and crispy!
3. Mixing It All Together:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, 2 teaspoons of salt, mozzarella, Parmesan, cheddar (if using), egg, flour, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, and black pepper. Mix everything together well until you have a thick and sticky batter. It’s okay if it’s a little messy—it’s going to be delicious!
4. Spreading Into the Pan:
Now, take your zucchini mixture and spread it evenly into the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly to create a compact layer. Make sure it’s spread out evenly for the best results!
5. First Bake:
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges start to turn a nice golden color. The smell will be amazing!
6. Adding Extra Cheese:
Once the time is up, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle some extra mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for that melty goodness we all love. Then, return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is all melted and bubbly with some golden brown spots.
7. Cutting and Cooling:
After it’s done baking, let the zucchini breadsticks cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will help them firm up a bit. When they’ve cooled, take a sharp knife and cut them into rectangular breadstick shapes. Try to make them even for presentation!
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnishing is key! Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for color, and you’re ready to serve. Enjoy these delicious cheesy zucchini breadsticks warm as a snack or side dish. They pair perfectly with marinara sauce or a garlic dip—yum!
These cheesy zucchini breadsticks offer a delightful cheesy crust with tender zucchini throughout, making them a hit for any occasion!
FAQ for Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini works best, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it into the batter. This helps prevent sogginess in your breadsticks.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you want to make this recipe egg-free, you can replace the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana. This will help bind the ingredients together without compromising the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other finely grated vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from them as well before adding to the mix!
