How To Make Squash Patties

You can make squash patties by combining cooked, mashed squash with a binder like breadcrumbs, eggs, and a little cheese, then pan-frying them until golden and crispy.
 
It’s one of those simple, old-fashioned recipes that turns an everyday vegetable into something special.
 
And the best part is that making squash patties doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen.
 
Whether you’re working with yellow squash, zucchini, or even butternut, the process for how to make squash patties stays pretty much the same.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make squash patties step by step, from prepping the squash to getting that perfect crispy finish.
 
Let’s get cooking.
 

Why You’ll Love Making Squash Patties

Learning how to make squash patties is worth it for so many reasons.
 
Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:
 

1. They’re a Great Way to Use Up Squash

If your garden is overflowing or you grabbed too many at the farmers market, squash patties are the answer.
 
Instead of letting your squash sit and go soft, you can turn it into something everyone will actually eat.
 
That’s one of the biggest reasons people learn how to make squash patties in the first place.
 

2. They’re Simple and Inexpensive

When you make squash patties, you’re using basic pantry staples like flour, breadcrumbs, and eggs.
 
There’s nothing complicated or pricey involved.
 
It’s a budget-friendly dish that still feels satisfying and homemade.
 

3. They’re Versatile

You can serve squash patties as a side dish, a light main, or even a snack.
 
They work for breakfast with a fried egg on top, or alongside dinner as a crispy companion to roasted chicken.
 
Once you know how to make squash patties, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy them.
 

How to Make Squash Patties Step by Step

Let’s break down exactly how to make squash patties so they come out golden, crispy, and full of flavor.
 

1. Choose and Prep Your Squash

First, pick your squash.
 
Yellow squash and zucchini are the most common choices, but butternut and acorn squash work too.
 
Wash it, then grate it using the large holes of a box grater.
 
Grating gives you the best texture for squash patties.
 

2. Remove Excess Moisture

This step is crucial when you make squash patties.
 
Squash holds a lot of water, and too much moisture means soggy patties.
 
After grating, sprinkle the squash with a little salt and let it sit for 10 minutes.
 
Then wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as you can.
 
Don’t skip this, or your squash patties won’t crisp up properly.
 

3. Mix Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your drained squash with:
 
– 1 egg
 
– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs or panko
 
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan or cheddar
 
– 2 tablespoons of flour
 
– Salt, pepper, and any herbs you like
 
Chopped green onion, garlic powder, or fresh parsley all work great in squash patties.
 
Mix everything until it holds together.
 
If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour or breadcrumbs.
 

4. Shape Your Patties

Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and form it into a patty.
 
Keep them about half an inch thick so they cook evenly.
 
Place the formed squash patties on a plate while you finish shaping the rest.
 

5. Fry Until Golden

Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
 
Once the oil shimmers, carefully place your squash patties in the pan.
 
Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they’re deep golden brown and crispy.
 
Don’t crowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of fry.
 
When you make squash patties, giving them space is the secret to that perfect crust.
 

6. Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked squash patties to a plate lined with paper towels.
 
This soaks up any extra oil.
 
Serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce.
 

Tips for the Best Squash Patties

Want to nail how to make squash patties every single time?
 
Keep these tips in mind:
 

1. Squeeze That Squash Dry

We said it before, but it’s worth repeating.
 
The drier your grated squash, the crispier your squash patties will be.
 

2. Don’t Overmix

Stir your ingredients just until they come together.
 
Overmixing can make the patties dense instead of light.
 

3. Let Them Rest Before Flipping

Resist the urge to flip too early.
 
Let your squash patties develop a crust before you turn them, or they’ll fall apart.
 

4. Bake or Air Fry for a Lighter Version

If you’d rather skip the frying, you can bake squash patties at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
 
An air fryer works too, and gives you that crispy edge with less oil.
 

So, How Do You Make Squash Patties?

You make squash patties by grating fresh squash, squeezing out the moisture, and mixing it with egg, breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings before frying each patty until golden brown.
 
It’s a simple, forgiving recipe that anyone can master.
 
And once you know how to make squash patties, you’ll never look at a bumper crop of squash the same way again.
 
Whether you fry them, bake them, or air fry them, squash patties are crispy, comforting, and endlessly adaptable.
 
So grab that squash sitting on your counter, and give this recipe a try tonight.