Baked parmesan zucchini is a dish that’s near and dear to my heart, a simple, yet incredibly flavorful side that graced our family table every summer. It’s one of those recipes that instantly transports me back to warm evenings, the smell of garden-fresh zucchini wafting from the kitchen. This baked parmesan zucchini recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a memory, a taste of home. It brings me so much joy to share this baked parmesan zucchini with you.
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This recipe is so easy, even my kids help out. The parmesan cheese creates a beautiful, crispy crust while the zucchini stays tender and slightly sweet. It’s a healthy, delicious way to use up all that summer zucchini! Let’s get started with this family favorite!
Why You Will Love This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
This crispy parmesan zucchini recipe is a game changer. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes! This parmesan zucchini transforms simple zucchini into a flavorful, satisfying side dish that even picky eaters will love, myself included.
I remember one particularly hot summer, we had an abundance of zucchini growing in our garden. My mom, always resourceful, created this baked zucchini recipe, which quickly became a family favorite. We’d eagerly await dinner, just to get our hands on those crispy, cheesy zucchini slices. It’s a taste of summer that I cherish.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the seasonings to your liking, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or even use different types of cheese. The possibilities are endless! It’s the perfect way to add a little excitement to your weeknight meals. This baked zucchini recipe is my go-to whenever I need a quick and tasty side.
Ingredients Needed for This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
- 2 medium zucchini, washed and sliced into ½ inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the zucchini is evenly coated.
- 3. Spread the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they’re not overlapping to allow for even cooking and crisping.
- 4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini slices. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
- 5. Bake for 2025 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- 6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. The parmesan zucchini will be very hot!
Follow us on Pinterest for more tasty recipes like this one! Sometimes I make this, and then I have Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for the main course.
How to Serve This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
This crispy parmesan zucchini is delicious served as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It also pairs well with pasta dishes, like Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, adding a fresh and flavorful element to the meal.
For a simple and satisfying snack, try serving it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for a pop of color and added flavor.
Grated mozzarella can be a nice addition.
How to Store This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover baked parmesan zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While freezing is not recommended (as the texture may become soggy), you can freeze it for up to 1 month. For best results, freeze the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the zucchini may become softer.
Tips to Make This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: You can use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the parmesan mixture.
- Success Tips: Slice the zucchini into even rounds to ensure they cook evenly. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will steam the zucchini instead of baking it.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Overbaking can make the parmesan cheese bitter. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking. Underbaking will result if the zucchini is limp.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: For extra crispy parmesan zucchini, broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, watching very carefully to prevent burning.
Helpful Notes for This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning, paprika, or even onion powder can add a delicious twist. If you don’t have garden fresh zucchini, store bought zucchini works too. My mom usually makes The Best Baked Corned Beef Recipe, but I’m happy eating this zucchini as a side.
Variation of This baked parmesan zucchini Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: In the fall, try adding a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice to the parmesan mixture for a warm and cozy flavor. In the spring, add some lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
- Optional Versions: For a breaded version, dip the zucchini slices in breadcrumbs before adding the parmesan cheese.
- Creative Modifications: Add a layer of ricotta cheese underneath the zucchini before topping with parmesan for a creamy and decadent version.
How do you keep baked parmesan zucchini from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy zucchini, sprinkle with salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat it dry with paper towels before coating and baking.
What temperature is best for baking parmesan zucchini?
Baking parmesan zucchini at 400°F (200°C) typically yields the best results. This temperature allows the zucchini to cook through while the parmesan cheese becomes golden brown and crispy.
Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese for this recipe?
Freshly grated parmesan cheese is recommended since it melts better and provides a richer flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect its melting properties.
How long does baked parmesan zucchini last in the fridge?
Baked parmesan zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or air fryer to restore some of its crispiness.
Conclusion
This baked parmesan zucchini recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it the perfect side dish for any occasion. From its crispy parmesan crust to its tender zucchini interior, every bite is a taste of pure culinary joy. I hope you enjoy this simple, yet incredibly satisfying baked parmesan zucchini as much as my family does. Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions – I love hearing from you!
Baked Parmesan Zucchini: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe EVER
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy and flavorful baked parmesan zucchini – a simple, yet delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender zucchini slices are tossed with parmesan cheese and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, washed and sliced into ½ inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, and parmesan cheese.
- Spread the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the Parmesan cheese is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
