Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits

Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

If you’re craving a savory, crowd-pleasing treat that combines the fresh crunch of vegetables with gooey, melted cheese, look no further than these Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits. Imagine biting into a warm, golden biscuit where the subtle earthiness of zucchini meets the irresistible pull of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all enhanced by the tangy burst of sun-dried tomatoes. This Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits recipe, featuring a moisture-controlled zucchini base for flaky perfection, is designed for home cooks who want quick, foolproof results every time. With just 33 minutes from start to finish, it’s the ultimate snack or appetizer that elevates any meal.

Picture the scene: fresh from the oven, these biscuits release an aromatic wave of cheesy goodness, with hints of basil and sun-dried tomatoes dancing in the air. Each bite offers a delightful contrast—crispy on the outside, tender and moist inside—thanks to the carefully squeezed zucchini that adds natural hydration without sogginess. The cheeses melt into a creamy core, creating strings of ooey-gooey delight, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide a sweet, chewy accent that keeps you coming back for more. This recipe isn’t just baking; it’s a sensory adventure that makes every gathering memorable.

Drawn from the expertise of Chef Mia and refined by the exorecipes.com team, this Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits version stands out as the most reliable and innovative online. We’ve tested it multiple times to ensure consistent, bakery-quality results, incorporating a chef’s secret that we’ll reveal shortly—think of it as your new go-to for effortless baking success. In this post, you’ll learn insider tips, ingredient swaps, and storage hacks that make these biscuits not just good, but extraordinary, helping you conquer the kitchen with confidence.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 12 biscuits

Why This Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: What sets this Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits recipe apart is the moisture-controlled zucchini technique—salting and squeezing out excess water before mixing. This ensures your biscuits achieve flaky perfection without the common pitfall of dense, soggy centers. By addressing zucchini’s high water content, we’re elevating the texture to professional levels, making these biscuits lighter and more airy than traditional versions.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind these biscuits lies in the cold butter integration and the role of baking powder. When you cut cold butter into the flour, it creates pockets that expand during baking, resulting in those irresistible flaky layers. The moisture-controlled zucchini adds just the right amount of tenderness, preventing over-drying while keeping the exterior golden and crisp.

Foolproof for a Reason: We’ve perfected this recipe through rigorous testing, guaranteeing success even for novice bakers. Every step is streamlined for ease, with built-in tips to avoid mishaps, ensuring your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits turn out perfectly every time. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a dependable staple for American-style appetizers and snacks.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

Start with grated zucchini, the star of these Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits. This vegetable adds moisture and a subtle, fresh flavor that keeps the biscuits tender without overwhelming the cheese. Opt for freshly grated zucchini for the best texture; older ones can be watery. If you’re short on zucchini, try substituting with grated carrots for a similar crunch, but note it will add a slight sweetness.

Salt, divided into 1¼ teaspoons, is essential for enhancing flavors in your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits. We use it to draw out moisture from the zucchini and season the dough. Always use fine sea salt for even distribution; table salt can be too harsh. For a low-sodium option, swap with kosher salt, but reduce the amount slightly to maintain balance.

Flour, at 2½ cups, forms the base of these Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits, providing structure and a light crumb. Choose all-purpose flour for its versatility; it’s key to achieving that perfect rise. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend, but add an extra tablespoon of milk to compensate for absorption differences.

Baking powder, 1 tablespoon, is the leavening agent that makes these biscuits rise flawlessly. Fresh baking powder ensures a good lift, avoiding flat results. There’s no direct substitute, but if yours is old, test it by mixing with hot water—if it bubbles, it’s good to use.

Cold butter, cubed at ½ cup, contributes to the flaky layers in your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits. Use high-quality unsalted butter for control over saltiness; European-style butter adds extra richness. If needed, substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, though it may alter the texture slightly.

Grated cheddar cheese, ½ cup, brings sharp, tangy notes to these Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded. For variety, swap with gouda for a smokier flavor, keeping the quantity the same.

Grated mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup, adds stretchy, melty goodness. Choose whole milk mozzarella for creaminess. A low-moisture substitute like provolone works if you want a firmer melt, but it will change the gooey factor.

Grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup, provides a nutty, savory depth. Freshly grated is best for flavor intensity. If unavailable, aged Asiago can replace it, offering a similar sharpness without compromising the recipe.

Chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tablespoons, introduce a sweet-tangy punch. Oil-packed varieties infuse extra flavor; drain well to avoid excess oil. For a milder option, use fresh cherry tomatoes, chopped and sautéed first.

Chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons (or 2 teaspoons dried), brightens the overall taste. Fresh basil offers the best aroma; if using dried, add it earlier in the process. Substitute with oregano for an Italian twist, adjusting to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, toss the ¾ cup grated zucchini with ¼ tsp of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture; then squeeze it out using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step ensures the zucchini doesn’t make the dough watery.

Pro Tip: Always squeeze the zucchini thoroughly to remove as much liquid as possible—this prevents soggy biscuits and maintains that perfect flaky texture in your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the 2½ cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp baking powder. Cut in the ½ cup cubed cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates the base for your dough.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Overworking the butter-flour mixture can lead to tough biscuits; stop once it’s crumbly to keep the layers light and airy in your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits.

Step 3: Adding the Cheeses and Flavorings

Stir in the ½ cup grated cheddar cheese, ¼ cup grated mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (or 2 tsp dried basil) into the dry mixture. Ensure even distribution for a balanced bite in every biscuit.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting; pre-shredded ones often have additives that can affect the texture of your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits.

Step 4: Forming the Dough

Gradually add milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the dough tender. The mixture should be sticky but manageable for dropping.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Adding too much milk at once can make the dough too wet; add it slowly while stirring to achieve the ideal consistency for your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits.

Step 5: Baking the Biscuits

Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly on the sheet before serving.

Pro Tip: For even baking, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough uniformly, ensuring all your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits cook at the same rate.

Serving & Presentation

Elevate your Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits with creative plating—arrange them in a rustic basket lined with a napkin for a casual vibe, or stack them on a wooden board with fresh basil leaves as an elegant garnish. Their golden hue and cheesy pull make them visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests at brunch or as an appetizer. Pair these biscuits with a light soup, like tomato basil, to complement the flavors, or serve alongside grilled chicken for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian twist, add them to a charcuterie board with olives and hummus.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all ingredients except the milk, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready, add milk and bake as directed for fresh Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits.

Storing Leftovers: Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

The Best Way to Reheat: To restore the original flaky texture and cheesy warmth, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy—just like freshly baked Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Finished recipe photo

How do you make Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits from scratch?

To make Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits from scratch, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Grate and salt the zucchini to remove excess moisture, then mix it with flour, baking powder, salt, cold butter, cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. Add milk to form the dough, drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet, and bake for 15-18 minutes. This straightforward process yields fluffy, flavorful results every time.

Can you substitute ingredients in Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients in Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits. For example, swap zucchini with grated carrots for a different veggie twist, or replace the cheeses with similar melting varieties like gouda or provolone. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan cheese alternatives, though they may slightly alter the texture. Always test substitutions to ensure the balance of flavors and moisture.

How long do you bake Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits?

Bake Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready. This timing ensures a crispy exterior and soft interior without over-baking.

What are the best ways to store homemade Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits?

The best ways to store homemade Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits include keeping them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Always cool them completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

Are Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits are naturally vegetarian, as they contain no meat products. They’re made with cheese, vegetables, and pantry staples, making them a great option for plant-based eaters, though they’re not vegan due to the dairy cheeses.

Can I add extras to Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits for more flavor?

Absolutely, you can enhance Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits by adding ingredients like garlic powder, chopped onions, or herbs such as rosemary. Start with small amounts to avoid overpowering the original flavors, and experiment based on your preferences for a customized twist.

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Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits

  • Author: Chef mia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 biscuits 1x
  • Method: Appetizers, Snacks
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Dive into the world of baking with these Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits! Perfectly golden and wonderfully cheesy, each biscuit brings a delightful mix of zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, and three kinds of cheese. They’re just the thing to brighten up your meal or serve as a scrumptious snack.


Ingredients

Scale
  • ¾ cupgrated zucchini
  • tspsalt, divided
  • cupsflour
  • 1 tbspbaking powder
  • ½ cupcubed cold butter
  • ½ cupgrated cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cupgrated mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cupgrated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbspchopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
  • 2 tbspchopped fresh basil (or2 tspdried basil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat yourovento 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, toss the grated zucchini with ¼ tsp of salt and let sit for 10 minutes; then squeeze out excess moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, mix flour, 1 tsp salt, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
  5. Gradually add milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-linedbaking sheet.
  7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

Feel free to play around with the types of cheese for different flavors, or add a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick!


Nutrition

  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1
  • Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 18
  • Protein: 5

Conclusion

These Cheesy Zucchini Drop Biscuits offer a delightful blend of gooey cheese and fresh zucchini, creating a savory, fluffy treat that’s perfect for using up summer vegetables or adding a comforting side to any meal. The combination of ingredients results in a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful inside that will have everyone coming back for seconds. For a fun variation, try swapping in different herbs like dill for an extra zing, or serve them warm alongside a simple soup for a hearty lunch option.

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