These air fryer zucchini fritters cook up crisp on the outside and tender in the middle, without standing over a skillet. A quick herb yogurt dip on the side makes them feel a little special, whether you’re serving them as a snack, lunch, or easy side.
Why This Air Fryer Recipe Works
Zucchini holds a lot of water, which is the main reason fritters can turn soggy. This method leans on a thorough squeeze and a lightly bound batter so the air fryer can do what it does best: circulate heat to dry and crisp the surface.
A small amount of oil helps browning, while a moderate temperature cooks the centers through before the outsides over-darken. The herb yogurt dip adds brightness and keeps the whole plate from feeling heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are straightforward pantry-and-fridge ingredients. If your zucchini is large, expect more moisture and plan on squeezing longer.
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb total), grated (large holes)
- 1 tsp kosher salt (for draining) + a pinch more to taste
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried dill (or 1 1/2 tsp fresh chopped dill)
- Neutral oil spray (avocado, canola, or similar)
For the herb yogurt dip:
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (plus zest if you like)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or chives
- 1 small clove garlic, finely grated (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters with Herb Yogurt Dip in the Air Fryer
1) Grate and drain the zucchini. Toss grated zucchini with 1 tsp kosher salt in a bowl and let sit 10 minutes. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel (or several layers of paper towels) and squeeze hard over the sink until very dry.
2) Mix the fritter batter. In a bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, scallions, garlic, Parmesan, flour, baking powder, eggs, pepper, and dill. Stir until evenly combined; the mixture should hold together when pressed. If it feels loose or wet, add 1–2 tbsp flour.
3) Make the herb yogurt dip. Stir together yogurt, lemon juice, herbs, and optional garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate while you cook so the flavors meld.
4) Preheat and prep the basket. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
5) Shape and air fry. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per fritter and gently flatten into 2 1/2–3 inch patties (about 1/2 inch thick). Arrange in a single layer with space around each; spray tops lightly with oil.
6) Flip for even browning. Air fry 8 minutes, flip carefully, spray tops lightly again, then air fry 6–8 minutes more until deep golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter.
7) Serve. Let fritters rest 2 minutes (they crisp a bit more as steam escapes). Serve warm with the herb yogurt dip.
Air Fryer Time and Temperature
For most basket-style air fryers, 375°F is the sweet spot for zucchini fritters: hot enough to drive off moisture, not so hot that the outside overbrowns before the center sets.
- Temperature: 375°F
- Total cook time per batch: 14–16 minutes
- Flip: after 8 minutes
- Oil: light spray before cooking and after flipping
If your fritters are thicker than 1/2 inch, add 1–2 minutes. If you’re using a larger oven-style air fryer, start checking at the earlier end since airflow can be stronger.
Tips for the Best Results
Most fritter issues come down to moisture and crowding. A couple small adjustments make a big difference.
- Squeeze the zucchini like you mean it. You want it noticeably drier and lighter before mixing.
- Don’t crowd the basket. Air needs to circulate around each patty for crisp edges.
- Flatten evenly. Thin, even patties brown better and cook through without burning.
- Use a thin spatula for flipping. Flip gently so they don’t crack.
- Let them rest 2 minutes after cooking. Steam escapes and the crust firms up.
Variations and Substitutions
These fritters are flexible as long as you keep the moisture in check.
- Gluten-free: swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. If the batter feels soft, add 1 extra tablespoon.
- Cheese options: feta adds tang (use 1/3 cup crumbled). Cheddar makes a richer fritter (use 1/2 cup).
- Extra veggies: add 1/2 cup grated carrot, but squeeze it lightly too.
- Spice: add 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Dip swap: sour cream works instead of yogurt, or mix yogurt with a spoonful of mayo for a mellower tang.
What to Serve With It
These work as a snack plate, brunch side, or a quick dinner add-on. Keep it simple and let the dip do the heavy lifting.
- Tomato-cucumber salad with olive oil and lemon
- Air fryer chicken thighs or salmon
- Soup and fritters: tomato soup or lentil soup
- Breakfast-style: poached or fried eggs, plus fruit
For more air fryer sides that pair well, see Air Fryer Recipes.
Storage and Reheating
Store cooled fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the dip separate and refrigerated; it’s best within 3 days.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 4–6 minutes, flipping once, until hot and crisp. If they were refrigerated stacked, separate them so the air can circulate. For more reheating help and timing, check Air Fryer Reheating Guide.
Freezing: freeze cooked fritters on a sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 360°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
FAQ
How do you keep zucchini fritters from getting soggy in the air fryer?
Squeeze out as much water as possible after salting the zucchini, then don’t overload the batter with extra zucchini liquid. Also avoid crowding the basket so moisture can evaporate instead of steaming the fritters.
Why are my air fryer zucchini fritters falling apart?
The mixture is usually too wet or under-bound. Squeeze the zucchini more, then add 1–2 tablespoons of flour and mix again; the batter should hold together when pressed into a patty.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer for fritters?
Preheating helps the fritters start crisping right away and reduces sticking. If you skip it, expect paler color and a couple extra minutes of cook time.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
You can mix it a few hours ahead and refrigerate, but it may weep a little liquid as it sits. Stir and add a tablespoon of flour if needed right before shaping.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 425°F on a parchment-lined sheet, lightly oiled, flipping once, until browned (about 18–24 minutes). The air fryer will usually give you a crisper surface.
