Crispy and flavorful, this Cheesecake Factory-inspired air fryer fried zucchini offers a healthier twist on the classic appetizer. Perfectly seasoned and easy to make, it’s a delicious snack or side dish everyone will love.
If you love the crispy, golden zucchini bites from Cheesecake Factory, you’re going to adore this air fryer version that’s lighter but just as flavorful.
Using simple ingredients and a quick air frying method, you can enjoy this tasty appetizer at home without the extra oil. It’s perfect for a snack, side dish, or party appetizer that everyone will rave about!
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Crispy and flavorful without the extra oil of deep frying.
- Quick and easy to prepare in the air fryer.
- Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- A healthier twist on a restaurant favorite everyone loves.
Cheesecake Factory’s Fried Zucchini Ingredients
- Small to medium zucchini
- Bread crumbs (preferably panko)
- Flour: Use all-purpose flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour
- Milk: Use whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk
- Egg: Use a large egg
- Paprika
- Kosher Salt
- Cooking spray or olive oil
How To Make Cheesecake Factory’s Air Fryer Fried Zucchini
Step One: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F for 3-5 minutes. Wash the zucchini thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized sticks or rounds. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch slices for even cooking.
Step Two: Pour flour (3 tbsp) into a plastic bag and put zucchini there. Tie the ends of the bag and shake gently a few times. Each piece of zucchini will be evenly coated with flour. Beat an egg into another bowl. Add flour, milk, salt, and also paprika, and mix everything thoroughly with a whisk. If you see that the batter is too liquid, add more flour; if too thick, pour in a little milk.
Step Three: Roll the floured zucchini circles in the thick dough on both sides. In another bowl, pour breadcrumbs and roll each circle of zucchini in breadcrumbs so they are completely covered.
Step Four: Place the zucchini pieces in the air fryer basket, set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F, and set the cook time for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process.
Step Five: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cheesecake Factory’s Air Fryer Fried Zucchini Recipe Tips
- Cut Evenly: Slice the zucchini into uniform rounds to ensure even cooking and crispiness in every bite.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch: For a thicker crust, dip in batter, then breadcrumbs—and repeat for a second coat.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For a restaurant-style crunch, opt for panko instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange zucchini in a single layer; cook in batches if needed so they crisp, not steam.
- Serve Immediately: These taste best fresh out of the air fryer while hot and crispy—pair with ranch or garlic aioli!
Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
- Storing: Place leftover zucchini in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Note: texture may soften slightly after freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy.
What To Serve With Cheesecake Factory’s Fried Zucchini Recipe
Cheesecake Factory’s Air Fryer Fried Zucchini pairs perfectly with a variety of dips and sides. Serve it with a tangy ranch, creamy garlic aioli, or the restaurant’s signature parmesan-garlic dipping sauce for a true copycat experience.
For a heartier plate, add grilled chicken, a crisp garden salad, or a bowl of pasta to balance the crunchy zucchini with something more filling. It’s also a great starter for any Italian or Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Cheesecake Factory’s Fried Zucchini Recipe Faqs
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Yes! You can bake the zucchini in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or shallow-fry in oil for extra crispiness.
What type of zucchini works best? Fresh, firm medium-sized zucchini are ideal. Avoid overly large ones, as they can be watery and less flavorful.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely—just use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a delicious GF version.
How do I keep the coating from falling off? Make sure each zucchini slice is dried well and follow the dredging steps in order: flour, batter, then breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs on gently to help them stick.
What sauce goes best with this fried zucchini? Cheesecake Factory-style zucchini is great with ranch, garlic aioli, marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick!
More Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER TGIF FRIDAY’S GREEN BEAN FRIES
- AIR FRYER STEAK FRIES
- THE BEST AND EASIEST AIR FRYER FRENCH FRIES RECIPE
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Cheesecake Factory’s Air Fryer Fried Zucchini
Description
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, plus 3 tablespoons for coating
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly and gets a crispy texture. Wash the zucchini thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized sticks or rounds. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch slices for even cooking.
- Pour flour (3 tbsp) into a plastic bag and put zucchini there. Tie the ends of the bag and shake gently a few times.
- Each piece of zucchini will be evenly coated with flour. Beat an egg into another bowl. Add flour, milk, salt, and also paprika, and mix everything thoroughly with a whisk. If you see that the batter is too liquid, add more flour; if too thick, pour in a little milk.
- Roll the floured zucchini circles in the thick dough on both sides. In another bowl, pour breadcrumbs and roll each circle of zucchini in breadcrumbs so they are completely covered.
- Place the zucchini pieces in the air fryer basket, set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F, and set the cooking time for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Equipment
- Parchment Paper, optional
- Cooking Spray, optional
Nutrition
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