This Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a tasty side dish that’s quick to make. The zucchini slices are crispy on the outside and cheesy on top, making them super delicious!
I love serving these with dinner, and they disappear fast! Plus, they’re a great way to sneak veggies into meals—who doesn’t love cheese on their greens? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh, medium zucchinis are the star here. If zucchinis are not available, you can use yellow squash or eggplant as tasty alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a sharp, cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a similar savory taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko for its extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture may be slightly different.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the zucchini crisp up. Feel free to use avocado oil or melted butter if you’d like a different flavor.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy in the Oven?
Getting your zucchini crispy is all about moisture control and cooking time. First, cut the zucchini into uniform sticks to ensure even cooking. Here are my tips:
- After cutting, pat the zucchini sticks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Coat them evenly with olive oil before adding the Parmesan mixture to help them crisp up.
- Use a preheated oven and arrange the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet to promote browning.
- Keep an eye on them while baking; adjusting the time based on your oven will ensure the perfect crunch.
Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil mix)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to get delicious baked Parmesan zucchini on your table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help the zucchini become crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Cut the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchinis well. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut those halves into thirds or quarters lengthwise to create sticks. You want them to be about the same size for even cooking!
3. Mix the Coating:
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix it up until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Drizzle the zucchini sticks with olive oil, then toss them to coat evenly. Next, add the zucchini sticks to the Parmesan mixture and coat them well by gently tossing or pressing the sticks into the mixture until they’re fully covered.
5. Bake:
Arrange the coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Try to give them some space; this helps them crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the zucchini from the oven. If you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Serve immediately as a tasty and healthy side dish or snack!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy baked Parmesan zucchini sticks!
FAQ for Easy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella for a melty twist or aged cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and melting properties may vary.
Can I Prep These Zucchini Sticks in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini sticks and coat them in the Parmesan mixture up to a day in advance! Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save you time on busy days!
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Zucchini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, check the Parmesan cheese label to ensure it’s gluten-free.
