I never thought a simple phone call to my Southern mother-in-law would change the way we eat zucchini forever. My husband kept mentioning these little “fried zucchini sandwiches” he grew up on, swearing they were the best thing his mama made. I finally caved and asked her for the recipe — and the moment I cooked them, I understood why he talked about them like a childhood treasure.

These little bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and melt together with warm, gooey cheese in the middle. They taste like something that should take an hour, but they come together in minutes. Now my whole family asks for them, and they’ve officially become a weekly staple in our house.

Here’s exactly how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup flour
• Salt & pepper
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds.
2. Take one slice, pile a spoonful of shredded cheese on top, and place another slice over it like a mini sandwich.
3. Lightly press them together.
4. In separate bowls, prepare beaten eggs and flour.
5. Dip each zucchini sandwich into the flour first, then into the egg.
6. Heat a pan with a thin layer of oil.
7. Fry each piece over medium heat until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is fully melted.
8. Place on paper towels to remove excess oil, sprinkle with salt, and serve immediately.

They’re crispy, cheesy, fast, and ridiculously good. One of those recipes you make once and suddenly can’t stop making.

Enjoy — these may just become your new favorite Southern snack.