This Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a fun side dish that’s both tasty and simple! Just slice up fresh zucchini, coat them in a yummy mix of parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden.
These crunchy bites are perfect for sneaking in some veggies while making everyone smile! I love serving them with a dip on the side—who can resist that combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are the star of this dish! If zucchini isn’t available, you can swap it with yellow squash for a similar taste and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy!
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko breadcrumbs for their extra crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work too, but for that crunch, panko is the best choice!
Garlic Powder: This adds strong flavor, but feel free to use fresh minced garlic if you prefer. Just be sure to use less, as fresh garlic is more potent!
How Do You Get the Zucchini Crispy in the Oven?
Getting crispy baked zucchini is all about preparation and cooking time. Here are some steps to keep in mind:
- Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Aim for sticks about 1/2-inch thick.
- Tossing zucchini in oil helps the coating stick. It also helps with crisping while baking!
- Spread the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet—this prevents steaming and promotes crispiness.
- Keep an eye on them! Baking times can vary, so check for that golden color and firm texture.
Enjoy crispy zucchini sticks that everyone will love as a side or snack!
How to Make Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, give yourself about 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the perfect temperature to make sure your zucchini gets nice and crispy! While your oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash and dry your zucchinis. Cut each one in half lengthwise. Then, slice each half into sticks about 3-4 inches long. These pieces should be uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Mix the Coating:
In a large bowl, combine your grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything’s well mixed.
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini sticks. Gently toss them to ensure they’re evenly coated with the oil. Next, add the zucchini sticks to your Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Toss again until each piece is well covered.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Lay your coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out. This helps them bake evenly and get crispy!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are tender on the inside and golden and crispy on the outside.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once baked, remove the zucchini from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like. It adds a lovely touch of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your deliciously crispy, cheesy zucchini sticks warm! They make a fantastic side dish or a tasty snack anytime!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every crunchy bite!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, affecting the crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Sticks?
Store any leftover zucchini sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also grind gluten-free crackers as an alternative for a similar crunch.
What Can I Serve with Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini?
These zucchini sticks pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Try serving them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a tangy yogurt dip for a delicious addition!
