Name: Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, grated; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Olive oil

Jump to Recipe

If you’re hunting for the crispiest, most comforting homemade snack, look no further than Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties. These savory golden bites capture everything I adore about classic comfort food—freshly grated zucchini, a pop of herbs, and a Parmesan crunch in every bite. They’re a staple in my kitchen for good reason: you can serve them as a snack, a side, or even the star of your next brunch. Whether you’re working through a mountain of garden zucchini or just craving something wholesome and delicious, this old-school recipe brings big flavor and a dash of nostalgia to your table every time.

Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties is refreshingly short and straightforward, but don’t be fooled—each item here is essential to achieving that signature flavor and unbeatable texture. Here’s what you’ll need—and why they matter!

2 medium zucchinis, grated: These bring natural moisture and a tender bite; make sure to squeeze them well for crispy patties.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Draws out the zucchini’s excess water and seasons every layer.
1/4 cup chopped green onions: Delivers a gentle oniony kick and bright color.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds fresh, grassy notes that make every bite pop.
2 large eggs: Act as a binder, making sure your patties hold their shape beautifully.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty richness and helps create that irresistible crispy crust.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Soaks up any remaining moisture for a tender interior and golden edges.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat to balance the mild veggies and cheese.
Olive oil for frying: Gives the patties a golden finish without greasiness.

How to Make Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties

Step 1: Prep and Salt the Zucchini

Start by grabbing your zucchinis and grating them onto a clean kitchen towel or sturdy paper towels. Once grated, sprinkle the salt evenly over the zucchini and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step is absolutely crucial! The salt will draw out the water, setting you up for crispy, not soggy, patties. After the zucchinis have rested, gather the edges of your towel and squeeze hard to wring out every last drop of liquid. Don’t be shy—the drier you get the zucchini, the better the final texture will be.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Transfer the squeezed zucchini to a large bowl. Add the chopped green onions, fresh parsley, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined. The mixture should be well-mixed but not too wet—just sticky enough to hold its shape when you scoop it.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Pour just enough olive oil in a large nonstick skillet to cover the bottom and place it over medium heat. You’re aiming for the oil to shimmer but not smoke—this ensures your Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties cook evenly, turning perfectly golden while staying tender inside.

Step 4: Shape and Cook the Patties

Use a spoon or small scoop to portion out the zucchini mixture and gently drop it into the preheated pan. Flatten each mound slightly with the back of your spoon or a spatula to create an even surface—this step is what gives those beautiful crispy edges! Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, resisting the urge to fuss too much until they’re deeply golden on the first side before flipping.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once both sides are crisp and browned, transfer your patties onto a plate lined with paper towels. This quick rest removes excess oil and keeps every bite lighter and crunchier. Serve up your Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties immediately while they’re still warm and irresistible!

How to Serve Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties

Garnishes

A finishing flourish takes these old-fashioned patties right over the top! Sprinkle with extra chopped herbs, a dusting of Parmesan, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness. For a creamy touch, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is a family favorite in my house.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties with fresh summer salads, roasted potatoes, or a simple tomato-cucumber medley turns them into a standout meal. They also work brilliantly as a side for grilled chicken or fish—think of them as the perfect partner to any main dish that needs a pop of color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you like to get playful at the table, try stacking the patties slider-style with your favorite savory spread, or cut them into wedges as a rustic appetizer platter for a party. At brunch, they’re stellar sandwiched inside a crusty baguette or served alongside poached eggs for an extra-special twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have a few patties left over? No problem! Let them cool to room temperature, then keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain moisture without letting them get soggy.

Freezing

To freeze Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before transferring to a zip-top bag. This trick keeps them from sticking together and lets you grab just one or two at a time for a quick snack.

Reheating

The quickest way to get that fresh-from-the-skillet crunch is to reheat patties in a hot oven or toaster oven (about 10 minutes at 375°F does the trick). If you’re in a hurry, a few minutes in a hot skillet is perfect for reviving their signature crispy outside.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works just as well in this recipe and adds a lovely touch of color. Just be sure to squeeze it dry the same way you would zucchini.

What’s the best way to keep my patties crisp while serving a crowd?

Keep finished patties on a baking sheet in a single layer in a low (200°F) oven while you cook the rest. This keeps them warm and crisp without drying them out.

Can I make Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely! Swap the regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety or even crushed gluten-free crackers for a delightful crunch.

Can I add cheese varieties besides Parmesan?

Sure! Parmesan is classic, but shredded cheddar, feta, or even a bit of mozzarella can be mixed in for a whole new flavor profile. Just be mindful of moisture; some cheeses melt more and may require a touch of extra breadcrumb.

How do I avoid soggy patties?

The secret is all in draining your zucchini as thoroughly as possible before mixing and never overcrowding the pan while frying. Both steps keep your Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties deliciously crisp every time.

Final Thoughts

If you crave a little golden crunch and garden-fresh flavor, Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties are that tried-and-true treat you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a backyard get-together, I can’t recommend them highly enough—give them a try and watch them disappear from your table!

Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 21 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Makes 8 patties 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Grandma’s Crispy Zucchini Patties are a delightful way to enjoy zucchinis. These crispy patties are bursting with flavor and make a perfect snack or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Patties:

2 medium zucchinis, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

Olive oil

Instructions

Grate and Drain Zucchinis: Grate the zucchinis and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out all the excess moisture using a clean towel.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the zucchini with green onions, parsley, eggs, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and pepper.
Heat Oil: Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cook Patties: Scoop a spoonful of the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Drain and Serve: Place the cooked patties on paper towels to remove excess oil and serve.

Notes

You can customize these patties by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
Make sure to squeeze out all the moisture from the grated zucchinis to prevent the patties from becoming soggy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer/Side Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American