If you love grilled cheese but want a lighter, veggie-packed twist, this recipe is for you. Instead of bread, we’re making crisp zucchini patties held together with Parmesan, egg, and a little cornstarch—then layering them with melty cheddar and rich garlic butter.
The result? Golden, cheesy, low-carb comfort food that tastes indulgent but sneaks in extra veggies.
This recipe is quick, fun, and a little different—perfect for when you want something cozy but still creative.
Why You’ll Love It
- Crispy + melty: Garlic butter gives the zucchini patties a golden crunch, while cheddar adds gooey comfort.
- Low-carb & gluten-free: A clever swap for bread that doesn’t feel like “diet food.”
- Beginner-friendly: Simple ingredients, easy steps, ready in 20 minutes.
- Customizable: Switch up the cheese, add herbs, or try fun fillings.
Ingredients (1 sandwich)
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp garlic butter
- 1–2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
Instructions
- Prep the zucchini
Grate zucchini, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is key to getting crispy patties. - Make the zucchini mixture
In a bowl, combine zucchini, egg, Parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until it forms a dough-like texture. - Cook the patties
Heat garlic butter in a skillet over medium heat. Scoop half the zucchini mixture into the pan, shaping it into a patty. Repeat with the remaining half. - Sear until golden
Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until firm, golden, and crispy. - Add the cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar on one patty, then top with the second patty to form a sandwich. - Melt & serve
Cook another 2–3 minutes, until the cheese melts. Remove from pan, let cool for 1 minute, then slice and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Herbs: Mix in fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cheese swaps: Try mozzarella for stretch, Gouda for smokiness, or Havarti for creaminess.
- Extra fillings: Add sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even a thin slice of turkey for more substance.
- Serving ideas: Pair with tomato soup, a crisp cucumber salad, or serve as a fun brunch sandwich topped with a fried egg.
Storing & Reheating
- Best eaten fresh, while hot and crispy.
- To prep ahead: Make the zucchini patties and store in the fridge for up to 3 days (before adding cheese).
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat—avoid the microwave, which makes them soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini Grilled Cheese is proof that healthy-ish comfort food can be exciting and satisfying. Crispy garlic butter patties + melty cheese = a sandwich you’ll crave again and again. Whether you keep it classic or play with fillings, it’s a recipe that makes veggies feel indulgent.
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