Go Back
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that has carved out a significant place in kitchens around the world. Known for its mild flavor and adaptability, zucchini can be grilled, sautéed, roasted, or even spiralized into noodles. As more people embrace healthy eating habits, zucchini has gained popularity not only as a vegetable side dish but also as a star ingredient in various snacks and appetizers. One such delightful creation is the Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Delights, a dish that artfully combines the fresh taste of zucchini with the richness of cheese in a crunchy, satisfying format.

Air Fried Cheesy Zucchini Rounds

Discover a tasty and healthy snack with Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Delights! This easy recipe combines fresh zucchini with mozzarella and Parmesan for a deliciously crunchy treat. Perfect for any occasion, these air-fried bites are lower in oil yet big on flavor. The light panko coating adds the ultimate crunch, making them irresistible. Serve with your favorite dips for a satisfying appetizer or snack. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with this feel-good recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

2 large zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini: Begin by thoroughly washing the zucchini under cold running water. Slice each zucchini into approximately 1/2-inch thick rounds. After slicing, place them on a paper towel and gently pat them dry to absorb any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness when cooked.

    Set Up Dredging Station: Organize your workspace by setting out three bowls. In the first bowl, crack and whisk the eggs until they are well beaten and frothy. In the second bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning. In the third bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to blend them together.

      Coat the Zucchini Rounds: Take each zucchini round and first dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip back into the bowl. Next, transfer the round to the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated while gently pressing down to help the crumbs adhere. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of the cheese mixture on top of each coated round for that cheesy goodness.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for crisping up the zucchini.

          Arrange and Spray: Carefully arrange the coated zucchini rounds in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space and are not overcrowded for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or olive oil spray to promote a rich, golden-brown crust.

            Air Fry: Cook the zucchini rounds in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they crisp up evenly on both sides.

              Serve: Once the zucchini rounds are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a minute. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. These cheesy delights can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings