Crispy Zucchini Fritters – Cheap, Quick, and Family-Approved

If you’re anything like me, you’re constantly trying to stretch a euro until it screams. Between hungry kids and grocery prices going mad, dinner can feel like a daily puzzle.

I made these crispy zucchini fritters on one of those “use whatever’s in the fridge” nights. Honestly, I didn’t expect much – just a way to make that lonely zucchini disappear. But it turned out so good, even my teenagers asked for seconds (which, in my house, is the highest praise a recipe can get).

They’re golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and full of flavour inside. And the best part? They cost almost nothing to make and take less than 30 minutes – perfect for busy family nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Budget-friendly – perfect for cheap, seasonal zucchinis.
✅ Quick & easy – done in under 30 minutes.
✅ Family-approved – even picky eaters love them.
✅ Great for meal prep – they freeze and reheat well.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters Recipe

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 15 min
Total Time: 25 min
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis (grated)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for draining)
• 1 egg
• 4 tablespoons plain flour
• 2 tablespoons grated cheese (optional but adds flavour)
• 1 clove garlic (minced) or ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Grate & Drain Zucchini
   • Grate zucchinis, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible – this is the secret to crisp fritters.
2. Make Batter
   • In a bowl, mix drained zucchini, egg, flour, cheese, garlic, and black pepper.
3. Fry Until Golden
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter and flatten slightly. Fry 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Serve Hot
   • Best served warm with sour cream, yogurt dip, or even ketchup (kids love it).

Pro Tips for Extra Crispy Fritters

Flip gently with a spatula so they don’t break.

Squeeze out as much moisture as possible – wrap grated zucchini in a clean tea towel and twist hard.

Use hot oil and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Tips & Variations

• Add chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap cheese for feta for a richer taste.
• Bake instead of frying: 200°C, 15–20 minutes on a lined baking tray.

Budget Tip

Buy zucchinis when they’re cheap in season – grate and freeze them in portions. Perfect for quick fritters anytime.

FAQ

Why squeeze zucchini?
Because too much water makes fritters soggy instead of crispy.

Can I make them ahead?
Yes! Cook, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot pan or oven.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, bake at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestion

Serve with a simple yogurt dip, alongside a fresh salad, or even topped with a poached egg for breakfast.

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If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments . And if you love budget-friendly meals like this try also my Penne Marinara and sign up for my weekly “Family Meals on a Budget” tips (form below 👇).