Introduction

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, featuring a crispy zucchini base instead of bread. This lighter, vegetable-packed version is perfect for a quick snack or a savory appetizer.

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Grate the zucchinis and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, and breadcrumbs until well mixed.
Step 4: Spread the zucchini mixture evenly on the baking sheet, shaping it into a square crust about ½ inch thick.
Step 5: Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it starts to firm up and lightly brown around the edges.
Step 6: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Let the zucchini crust grilled cheese cool for a few minutes, then cut into squares and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add herbs like basil or oregano to the zucchini mixture before baking.
Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste, such as combining sharp cheddar with mozzarella.
To reduce moisture further, salt the grated zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes before squeezing out water.
Try adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms on top before the final bake for a savory twist.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini crust grilled cheese squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to preserve crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini for the crust?

Yes, grated cauliflower or finely chopped spinach can be used as alternatives, but the texture and moisture content may vary, so adjust the eggs and breadcrumbs accordingly.

How do I prevent the zucchini crust from being soggy?

Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before mixing. Baking the crust until it’s firm and slightly browned also helps achieve a crispier base.

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares Recipe

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4.5 from 104 reviews

Zucchini Crust Grilled Cheese Squares are a creative and delicious twist on traditional grilled cheese. Using a baked zucchini crust as the base, these savory squares are layered with melted cheese for a satisfying, low-carb snack or appetizer that combines the goodness of vegetables with gooey comfort food.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 9–12 squares 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Crust

2 medium zucchinis, grated and drained
2 large eggs
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Cheese Filling

1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Bake the Zucchini Crust: Line a baking sheet or square baking pan with parchment paper. Spread the zucchini mixture evenly to form a crust approximately 1/2 inch thick. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is set and starting to turn golden.
Add Cheese Topping: Remove the baked crust from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Finish Baking: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Cool and Cut: Let the zucchini crust grilled cheese cool slightly so the cheese can firm up a bit. Then cut into squares and serve warm.

Notes

Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the grated zucchini as possible to prevent a soggy crust.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles, such as sharp cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack.
Breadcrumbs help bind the crust but can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
These squares are great served with a side of marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Keywords: Zucchini crust, grilled cheese, low carb, vegetable crust, baked grilled cheese, appetizer, easy snack