Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
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I never knew zucchini could be this addictive until I started making Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters. The air fryer crisps up the Panko coating perfectly while keeping the inside tender with melted cheese and zucchini. Garlic adds a savory punch to every bite. You’ll be making these weekly once you taste how good they are.
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I make them for family dinners, game day parties, and summer cookouts when I want a healthier side or appetizer that kids love too. They’re quick to make and the air fryer makes cleanup easy, perfect for busy weeknights. They stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
Here are my simple tips on how to make your crispy zucchini fritters in the air fryer.
Prepare the Zucchini
Grate your zucchini using a box grater with the large holes. I love using this box grater because the large holes give me perfectly shredded zucchini every time without slipping or clogging.
Once shredded, place the grated zucchini in a strainer, like a reusable mesh bag like this, cheesecloth, or even a clean kitchen towel, and squeeze hard. You’ll be surprised how much liquid comes out, and if you skip this step, your fritters will turn soggy instead of crispy.
Mix the Fritter Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, Panko breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, mozzarella, and minced garlic (or a pinch of garlic powder if you want an extra boost of flavor).
Season with salt and pepper, then mix everything until it’s well blended and holds together when you squeeze it. I like using a sturdy wooden spoon here because it helps me mix everything evenly without mashing the zucchini.
Shape the Fritters
Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper. I recommend using precut parchment paper because it fits perfectly in the air fryer and keeps the fritters from sticking without any hassle.
Scoop portions of the mixture with a spoon or this ice cream scoop for even sizing, then use your hands to shape them into zucchini patties. Press them down gently so they’re compact but not too thick.
Brush with Oil and Arrange
Lightly brush or spray each fritter with vegetable oil using a brush or cooking spray. This helps them get that golden, crispy exterior. I like using my pastry brush here because it lets me coat each fritter lightly and evenly, which gives them that golden, crisp finish.
Then arrange them in the air fryer basket with enough space between each fritter to allow the hot air to circulate properly and to cook them evenly.
Air Fry Until Golden
Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 4 minutes, then carefully flip each fritter and cook for another 4 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Transfer crispy zucchini fritters to a plate lined with paper towels and serve them hot with dipping sauce like a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the crisp, or garnish them with herbs like dill, fresh parsley, fresh chives, or green onion for a bright, fresh flavor and cracked black pepper for a warm, subtle bite. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups shredded zucchini well squeezed to remove excess water
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place it in a cheesecloth or mesh bag and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine zucchini, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.2 cups shredded zucchini, 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 garlic cloves, Salt and pepper
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Scoop portions of the mixture with a spoon or ice cream scoop, then shape into patties with your hands.
- Lightly brush or spray fritters with vegetable oil. Place them in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each fritter.3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 4 minutes, flip, and cook for another 4 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Enjoy hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and cracked black pepper.
Notes
- Squeeze the zucchini dry: The drier your zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be. Take an extra 30 seconds to really squeeze out all the moisture through the cheesecloth.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the same crispy texture, while Panko creates those crunchy, golden edges that make these fritters so addictive.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste your mixture before cooking and add more salt, pepper, or garlic if needed, keeping in mind that the Parmesan adds saltiness, so start conservatively.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between fritters so hot air circulates evenly. Cook in batches if needed for the crispiest results.
- Flip carefully: Use a thin spatula to flip the fritters gently at the halfway point. They’re delicate before they’re fully cooked.
- Flash freeze for meal prep: Freeze cooked fritters on a baking sheet for 1 hour before transferring to containers so they don’t stick together. Reheat straight from frozen at 350°F for 5-6 minutes.
Nutrition
How to Store Leftovers
Store cooled leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crispy texture since microwaving makes them soggy.
For longer storage, freeze the fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, just until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
Serve these with sour cream, tzatziki sauce, ranch dressing, or marinara for dipping, making them perfect for appetizer spreads and game day tables. They pair beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain bowl for a complete meal.
For brunch, serve them alongside scrambled eggs, avocado toast, and fresh fruit. They also work as part of a mezze platter with hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and pita bread, or paired with soup like tomato basil or minestrone for a comforting dinner.
More Easy Recipes for You to Try at Home
I think you’ll love these other easy air fryer appetizers.
