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Crispy Southern Yellow Squash Patties Recipe with Sharp Cheddar

crispy southern yellow squash patties - featured image

A quick and easy summer side dish featuring crispy yellow squash patties with a gooey sharp cheddar center, perfect for warm nights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium yellow squash, washed and shredded (about 4 cups)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (95 grams)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped or grated
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil or canola oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Shred the yellow squash using a box grater or food processor into a large bowl (about 4 cups).
  2. Remove excess moisture by transferring the shredded squash into a fine mesh strainer or wrapping it tightly in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing firmly.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. In the large bowl with the drained squash, add the beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, and shredded sharp cheddar. Stir until well combined.
  5. Gradually fold the flour mixture into the squash mixture until the batter is thick but not dry. Add more flour one tablespoon at a time if too wet.
  6. Heat about 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  7. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per patty, flatten gently into rounds, and place carefully into the hot oil. Fry in batches without overcrowding.
  8. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, flipping gently with a spatula.
  9. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and keep warm in a low oven if needed.
  10. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Squeezing out excess moisture from the shredded squash is crucial for crispy patties. Use medium heat for frying to avoid burning or greasy patties. Flip patties only when edges are set and golden. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use vegan cheddar and flax egg.

Nutrition

Keywords: yellow squash patties, crispy squash patties, southern squash recipe, sharp cheddar patties, summer side dish, easy squash recipe