Air Fried Cheesy Zucchini Corn Fritters (+ skillet instructions) Recipe
Crispy and flavorful Air Fried Cheesy Zucchini Corn Fritters are a perfect light snack or side dish. Made with shredded zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, sweet corn, and a hint of garlic, these fritters are quick to prepare and cook using an air fryer for a healthier twist, or you can opt for the classic skillet method for a traditional frying experience.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 fritters (serves 2)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fritter Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 medium-size zucchini)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Cooking
- Cooking spray (for air fryer basket or skillet)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for skillet method)
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Cut off the ends of the zucchini and shred them using a box grater. Place the shredded zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Toss gently and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, positioning the colander over a sink or bowl to catch drips.
- Drain excess moisture: After 10 minutes, use your hands to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini or place it in a clean dish towel and wring tightly. This step ensures the fritters are crispy.
- Make the batter: Transfer the zucchini to a bowl; add the egg, finely chopped onion, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the flour over the top, then mix gently until just combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and corn. The batter should be thick but moist enough to form patties.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Form and season fritters: Use a 1/4 cup measuring scoop to form four evenly sized fritter patties. Place them gently inside the air fryer basket. Season the tops with additional salt to taste.
- Air fry the fritters: Cook for 8–10 minutes total, flipping the fritters halfway through. After flipping, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Remove them when they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Skillet alternative method: If you prefer, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and coat the bottom evenly. Once hot, spoon the batter using a 1/4 cup measure into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the underside is golden and browned. Carefully flip, gently press down with a spatula, and cook until both sides are golden and crispy.
Notes
- Squeezing out zucchini moisture is essential for crispy fritters.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer brand and model.
- Use fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned corn according to your preference—just drain canned corn before use.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep fritters tender.
- The skillet method uses olive oil and requires a bit more attention than air frying but yields equally delicious results.
