Zucchini Cheese Breadsticks Recipe

Crispy Zucchini Cheese Breadsticks Recipe: Garden-Fresh Delight

Crispy and golden, these zucchini cheese breadsticks offer a fresh take on classic appetizers.

Packed with garden-fresh zucchini and melted cheese, they bring a satisfying crunch and savory flavor to any meal.

Herbs and spices infuse every bite with mouthwatering aroma and taste.

Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these breadsticks quickly become a crowd favorite.

Serve them warm and watch them disappear before you can say “more, please!” They make a perfect appetizer or snack.

Everyone will want seconds at the table.

Tips for Cheesy Zucchini Breadstick Success

  • Squeeze zucchini with clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to remove maximum moisture, preventing soggy breadsticks.
  • Use freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan for better melting and richer flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
  • Monitor final bake closely to achieve golden-brown cheese without burning, ensuring crispy edges and melted center.
  • Replace traditional cheese mixture with almond flour for gluten-free and keto-friendly version that maintains similar texture.
  • Sprinkle dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning before final bake to elevate overall taste and add aromatic depth.

Breadstick Twists for Zucchini Lovers

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that maintains the cheesy texture.
  • Vegan Zucchini Sticks: Swap mozzarella and parmesan with nutritional yeast and cashew cheese. Use flax egg instead of regular egg for binding.
  • Spicy Herb Breadsticks: Add red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and chopped fresh basil to the base mixture for an extra flavor kick.
  • Mediterranean Style: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and sprinkle za'atar seasoning on top before final baking for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

Serving Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

  • Dip Delight: Serve these zucchini breadsticks with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for a flavor-packed appetizer that'll wow your guests.
  • Party Platter Partner: Arrange breadsticks alongside other finger foods like chicken wings or mozzarella sticks for a crowd-pleasing game day spread.
  • Salad Sidekick: Slice breadsticks into bite-sized pieces and use as a crunchy topping for fresh garden salads, adding extra texture and cheesy goodness.
  • Breakfast Twist: Cut into smaller strips and serve alongside scrambled eggs or as a quick morning grab-and-go snack for busy families.

Storage for Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

  • Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Warm chilled breadsticks in the oven at 350F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave heating, which can make the texture soggy and rubbery.
  • Wrap cooled breadsticks individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Place a paper towel in the storage container to absorb excess moisture and keep breadsticks crisp and appetizing.

FAQs

  • Why do I need to squeeze out liquid from zucchini?

Removing excess moisture prevents soggy breadsticks and helps achieve a crispy texture that holds together well.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar or provolone for varied flavor profiles.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The basic recipe uses no flour, making it naturally gluten-free, but always check individual cheese and ingredient labels to confirm.

  • How do I know when the breadsticks are perfectly cooked?

Look for golden-brown edges and a firm texture that holds its shape when lifted – this indicates the zucchini moisture has evaporated and the cheese is melted.

Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks Flavor Features

  • Boost Nutrition: Pack a veggie punch with zucchini, transforming a classic breadstick into a healthier alternative that sneaks extra nutrients onto your plate.
  • Simplify Cooking: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious results without complex techniques.
  • Customize Easily: Swap cheeses or add herbs to personalize the breadsticks, creating a versatile side dish that adapts to your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
  • Crowd-Pleaser Potential: Appeals to both kids and adults, making it an excellent option for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings where everyone wants something tasty and satisfying.

Ingredients for Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks

Main Ingredients:
  • Zucchini: A fresh vegetable that provides moisture and subtle flavor to the breadsticks.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: A soft, melty cheese that creates a stretchy and creamy texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A hard, sharp cheese that adds a rich and tangy flavor to the mixture.
  • Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure to the breadsticks.
Seasoning:
  • Garlic Salt: Adds a savory and aromatic flavor to enhance the overall taste of the breadsticks.
Topping Cheese:
  • Cheese of Choice: An optional additional cheese for extra melting and flavor on top of the breadsticks.

How to Make Zucchini Breadsticks Easily

Step 1: Prep Zucchini

Grab your fresh zucchini and grate it using a box grater.

Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Squeeze out every single drop of moisture – the drier the zucchini, the crispier your breadsticks will be!

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained zucchini with:
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Grated parmesan
  • Egg
  • Garlic salt

Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and form a cohesive mixture.

Step 3: Initial Baking

Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.

Spread the zucchini mixture into a thin, even layer.

This will help create a crispy base for your breadsticks.

Pop the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 425°F and bake for 15 minutes until the edges start turning golden.

Step 4: Cheese Topping

Pull out the partially baked zucchini base and sprinkle your favorite cheese over the top.

You can use cheddar, additional mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor complexity.

Step 5: Final Crisp and Melt

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes.

Watch carefully until the cheese melts completely and develops a beautiful golden-brown color.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing into breadstick-shaped pieces.

Print
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Zucchini Cheese Breadsticks Recipe

Zucchini Cheese Breadsticks Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Irresistible zucchini cheese breadsticks bring Italian comfort straight to your kitchen, blending garden-fresh vegetables with melted cheese. Crispy edges and gooey centers make these breadsticks a perfect snack you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (946 ml) grated zucchini
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) mozzarella cheese
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml) grated cheese for topping

Binding Ingredient:

  • 1 egg

Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic parsley salt

Instructions

  1. Grate zucchini and meticulously extract excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, pressing firmly to remove all liquid.
  2. In a mixing bowl, blend the drained zucchini with shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, beaten egg, and garlic salt until thoroughly combined.
  3. Spread the zucchini mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a thin, uniform layer approximately 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15 minutes, allowing the base to become golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
  5. Generously sprinkle additional cheese varieties across the surface, ensuring complete coverage.
  6. Return to the oven for 2-5 minutes, monitoring closely until the cheese melts completely and develops a rich, golden-brown color.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to allow the breadsticks to set and become easier to slice into strips.

Notes

  • Squeeze zucchini completely dry to prevent soggy breadsticks and ensure crispy texture.
  • Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to remove maximum moisture from grated zucchini.
  • Consider adding herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor boost to the base mixture.
  • Swap mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly version of the recipe.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Appetizer, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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