If you’re looking for a quick, low-carb, and delicious snack or side dish, these Keto Pan-Fried Zucchini Rounds with Cheese are perfect! They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Plus, they take just 15 minutes to make, making them an ideal last-minute meal addition.
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Each serving has minimal carbs, making it perfect for keto diets.
✔ Super Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Crispy & Cheesy – The cheese creates a golden crust for extra flavor.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Enjoy them fresh or store them for later.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis (sliced into ¼-inch rounds)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- 1 large egg (for coating)
- ½ cup almond flour (for crispiness, or substitute coconut flour)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 2 tbsp sour cream or ranch dressing (for dipping)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash and slice the zucchini into ¼-inch rounds.
- Lay the slices on a paper towel, sprinkle with a little salt, and let them sit for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Pat them dry with another paper towel.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In one bowl, whisk the egg.
- In another bowl, mix almond flour, shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Zucchini Slices
- Dip each zucchini round into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Then, press it into the cheese mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Set the coated rounds on a plate while you heat the pan.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Perfection
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Place the zucchini rounds in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like sour cream or ranch dressing.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish – Pair with grilled chicken or steak.
- As a Snack – Enjoy with keto-friendly marinara or cheese dip.
- As a Topping – Add to salads or sandwiches for extra crunch.
Tips & Variations
✔ Make it Extra Crispy: Use Parmesan cheese for a firmer crust.
✔ Use Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a new flavor.
✔ Bake Instead of Frying: Place on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
✔ Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flipping once.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 1 month (reheat in the oven for crispiness).
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet for 2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are these zucchini rounds really keto-friendly?
Yes! Almond flour and cheese keep the carb count low while adding great flavor.
2. Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, but use less coconut flour (about ⅓ cup) since it absorbs more moisture.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese or just coat the zucchini in seasoned almond flour.
4. Why is my zucchini soggy?
Make sure to salt and dry the zucchini before cooking to remove excess water.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
Final Thoughts
These Keto Pan-Fried Zucchini Rounds with Cheese are the perfect quick, crispy, and healthy low-carb snack. Whether you're enjoying them as a side dish, appetizer, or a quick bite, they're simple to make and packed with flavor.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly treat!
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