These Easy Zucchini Breadsticks are a tasty treat that’s perfect for snack time! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a hint of garlic, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Whenever I make these, my family can’t get enough. They love dipping them in marinara sauce—it’s a fun twist! Plus, they’re a sneaky way to get some veggies in. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini is the star here! If you can’t find zucchini, try using yellow squash as a substitute. Both have a similar texture and flavor.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its stretchy texture, but you could also use cheddar or a dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan. Parmesan adds a nice salty kick, but skip it if you’re avoiding dairy.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if needed. Adjust the amount slightly since different flours absorb moisture differently.
Egg: For a vegan option, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce to help bind the mixture together.
How Do You Make the Best Zucchini Breadsticks?
One of the most crucial steps for making these breadsticks is removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Overly watery zucchini can make your breadsticks soggy. After grating the zucchini, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and twist to squeeze out as much liquid as you can.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure they bake evenly.
- Mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly to avoid breaking up the zucchini too much.
- Shape the mixture evenly on the baking sheet so they cook uniformly.
After the first bake, cutting them into sticks before the second bake helps them crisp up nicely. Enjoy them fresh and warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. So, get ready to enjoy your tasty zucchini breadsticks in about 35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your breadsticks bake evenly. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel. Twist the towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key to achieving crispy breadsticks—no one likes soggy breadsticks!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well combined—this mixture should look like a thick batter.
4. Shape the Mixture:
Transfer the zucchini mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Press and spread it out into a rectangular or square shape, about 1/2 inch thick. This will help it cook evenly during baking.
5. First Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the zucchini mixture for about 15 minutes. You want the edges to start turning golden as this indicates it’s cooking nicely.
6. Cut into Sticks:
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, carefully cut the baked zucchini mixture into breadstick shapes. This step allows them to cook more evenly during the second round of baking.
7. Second Bake:
Return the cut breadsticks to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for that perfect crispy and golden brown finish!
8. Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool slightly. They’re delicious warm! If you like, serve them with marinara sauce for dipping—it’s a crowd favorite!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy zucchini breadsticks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture, but if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to completely thaw it and squeeze out the excess moisture. The water content in frozen zucchini can lead to soggy breadsticks, so drying it well is key!
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to reduce calories or avoid dairy, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor—just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Breadsticks?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed and crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just shape it on the baking sheet just before you’re ready to bake for the best results!
