Baked Parmesan Zucchini

If you’re searching for a light, crispy, and incredibly flavorful side dish or snack, this Baked Parmesan Zucchini is going to be your new favorite! With tender zucchini coated in a golden layer of Parmesan and breadcrumbs, this oven-baked recipe offers all the crunch you crave without the need to fry. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any meal or gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Yet Satisfying – All the crispy goodness without deep frying.
• Fast & Easy – Simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
• Family Favorite – Kids and adults alike love the cheesy crunch.
• Versatile – Works as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Zucchini:

• 3 medium zucchinis
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Parmesan Coating:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for a hint of color and flavor)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or a spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cut the Zucchini
3. Wash and dry the zucchinis.
4. Cut each zucchini into quarters lengthwise to form sticks or slice them into ½-inch thick rounds.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini
5. Place zucchini pieces in a large mixing bowl.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 4: Coat with Parmesan Mixture
7. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and paprika if using.
8. Press each zucchini piece into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides generously.
9. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
11. The zucchini should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
12. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
13. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Crispy Baked Zucchini

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs – They give a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Leave space between each piece for better air circulation and crispiness.
• Serve Right Away – They’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven for maximum crunch.
• Add Extra Flavor – Feel free to mix in a little onion powder, cayenne, or lemon zest to the coating mix.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish for Grilled Meats – Perfect alongside chicken, fish, or steak.
• Game Day Snack – Serve with dips like marinara, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo.
• Appetizer Platter – Add to a veggie platter with carrots, celery, and dips.
• Lunch Bowl Topper – Great on top of a grain bowl or salad for crunch.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 5–8 minutes to bring back some crisp.
• Air Fryer: Crisp up at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.
• Microwave: Avoid if possible, as it makes them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

2. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely, they work just as well with a slightly different flavor.

3. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

4. Can I make these vegan?
Swap the Parmesan for a plant-based version or nutritional yeast and skip the egg (if using in a coating version).

5. Are they keto-friendly?
Use almond flour in place of breadcrumbs for a low-carb version.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe is a flavorful, crunchy, and healthy way to enjoy your veggies. Whether you serve them as a snack, a starter, or a side dish, these golden bites deliver big flavor with simple ingredients. They’re easy to make, easy to love, and always disappear fast at the dinner table.

Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations online. I’d love to see how yours turn out!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 190 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 14g | Fat: 11g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

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