Introduction

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares offer a fresh twist on a classic comfort food. Using zucchini as a crust adds a light, slightly savory base that pairs perfectly with melted cheese. This recipe is simple, delicious, and great for a quick snack or light meal.

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, grated
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
2 large eggs
½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, and breadcrumbs thoroughly. Press this mixture evenly into a greased baking dish, forming the crust.
Step 3: Bake the zucchini crust for about 20 minutes, or until it firms up and starts to turn golden around the edges.
Step 4: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Let the squares cool slightly before cutting into pieces and serving.

Tips & Variations

To reduce extra moisture, salt the grated zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes before squeezing out water.
Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan for a richer flavor.
Add herbs such as basil or oregano to the crust mixture for an herby touch.
For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or gluten-free crumbs.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain crust crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can make a vegan version by using plant-based cheese and replacing eggs with flax or chia seed eggs. Adjust baking times as needed depending on the binders used.

Can I prepare the zucchini crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the zucchini crust ahead of time, then add cheese and bake just before serving to keep it fresh and melty.

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares Recipe

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4.7 from 141 reviews

This Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares recipe offers a deliciously cheesy treat with a unique twist by using a baked zucchini crust as the base. Perfect as a light snack or appetizer, these squares combine the wholesome goodness of zucchini with gooey melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 9 squares 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Crust

2 medium zucchinis, grated
2 large eggs
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Filling

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

Instructions

Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchinis thoroughly and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to ensure the crust is not soggy.
Make the crust mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Form and bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the zucchini mixture evenly in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet to form a flat, square crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden and it is mostly set.
Add the cheese topping: Remove the crust from the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the warm zucchini crust.
Bake again to melt the cheese: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Cool and serve: Allow the baked zucchini crust grilled cheese to cool slightly, then cut into squares and serve warm as a delightful snack or appetizer.

Notes

Be sure to squeeze out all excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent a soggy crust.
You can use a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
Baking time may vary depending on oven; watch for a golden crust and melted cheese.
Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Keywords: Zucchini crust, grilled cheese, baked cheese squares, vegetarian snack, zucchini recipe