Name: Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, shredded; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; Olive oil spray

Craving something crispy, savory, and secretly packed with vegetables? These Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters are the answer to your snack or side dish dreams. Perfectly golden and loaded with shredded zucchini, they deliver a crunchy bite on the outside with a tender, flavorful interior. And the best part? No greasy frying needed!

Air frying these fritters brings out their natural flavor and texture without the mess or excess oil. They’re a clever way to use up zucchini and sneak some veggies onto the plate, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or simply want a satisfying, wholesome dish. Serve them with a dollop of herbed yogurt or tangy sour cream dip for the ultimate pairing.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters, the prep is surprisingly simple, but the tools you choose make a big difference.

Grater or Food Processor: For shredding zucchini quickly and evenly. A box grater works just fine, but a food processor can save time, especially if you’re making a large batch.

Clean Kitchen Towel or Cheesecloth: Essential for squeezing out excess water from the shredded zucchini. This prevents soggy fritters and ensures they crisp up properly in the air fryer.

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of bowls to mix ingredients and to rest the batter if needed.

Air Fryer: The star of the show. It cooks the fritters evenly and delivers that golden crunch without needing deep frying. A parchment liner is optional but helps prevent sticking.

Spatula or Scoop: Handy for forming fritters and transferring them neatly into the air fryer basket.

With the right tools on hand, you’ll breeze through the prep and enjoy evenly crisped fritters every time.

Ingredients for the Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

Each ingredient in these fritters is carefully chosen to balance texture, flavor, and moisture:

Zucchini: The star of the show. Freshly grated zucchini forms the base, adding moisture and a mild vegetal note. Make sure to squeeze out the liquid thoroughly.

Eggs: These bind the fritters together, helping them hold their shape during air frying.

All-Purpose Flour: Helps absorb moisture and adds structure. You can sub in gluten-free flour if needed.

Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, nutty flavor that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.

Green Onions: These bring freshness and a mild bite that cuts through the richness.

Garlic (minced): Adds depth and a savory backbone to the fritters.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.

Baking Powder: A pinch helps the fritters puff slightly for a light texture.

Olive Oil Spray: For a golden finish in the air fryer without needing to deep fry.

How To Make the Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

Step 1: Shred and Drain the Zucchini

Use a box grater or food processor to shred the zucchini. Place the shreds in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as possible. This is the key to crispy fritters.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, eggs, flour, Parmesan, green onions, garlic, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the basket with olive oil spray or line it with parchment paper.

Step 4: Form the Fritters

Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture and gently flatten them into small patties. Space them evenly in the basket without overcrowding.

Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray lightly with olive oil on each side for extra crispness. They should be golden brown and firm.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They pair well with a herbed yogurt dip, sour cream, or your favorite aioli.

How to Serve and Store Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

These fritters are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish alongside grilled proteins or a fresh garden salad. They also work beautifully in a brunch spread or tucked into pita bread with tzatziki and greens.

For dipping, creamy sauces are your best friend. Think herbed yogurt, lemon garlic aioli, sour cream with dill, or even marinara for an Italian twist.

To store leftovers, allow fritters to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 350°F to restore their crispiness. They also freeze well — just separate them with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent soggy fritters?

The key is squeezing out all the excess water from the zucchini. Don’t skip this step or your fritters won’t crisp properly.

Can I use almond or coconut flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, both are good gluten-free alternatives, though the texture will vary slightly. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed to bind the batter.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

It’s best to cook the fritters fresh, but you can shred and drain the zucchini ahead and store it in the fridge. Mix everything just before air frying.

Do I need to flip them in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping ensures both sides get golden and crispy. Just be gentle to keep their shape intact.

What dip pairs best with these fritters?

A lemon-herb yogurt dip or sour cream with a touch of garlic and dill is perfect. You could also try hummus or tzatziki for a Mediterranean twist.

Can I make them without eggs?

Try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or an egg replacer. It may alter the texture slightly, but still works well.

Want More Air Fryer Veggie Ideas?

If you loved these Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters, you’re in for a treat with more veggie-forward air fryer recipes.

For another irresistible snack, try the Air Fried Potato Wedges — perfectly seasoned and ideal for dipping.

Feeling adventurous? The Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower delivers bold flavor and crunch with every bite.

If you enjoy Mediterranean flair, you’ll adore the Mediterranean Salmon Patties — just as crispy and satisfying, but with a seafood twist.

And for something stuffed and savory, don’t miss the Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles — a unique twist that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

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