Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Name: Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Baked Parmesan Zucchini as a quick and delicious side dish. It's so easy to prepare, and the combination of flavors—fresh zucchini and nutty Parmesan—always leaves my family asking for seconds. I love how baking them brings out their natural sweetness while creating a perfect crispy texture. This recipe is not only great for busy weeknights, but it also makes a fantastic addition to any summer BBQ or gathering. Give it a try, and you'll be amazed at how simple yet satisfying it is!

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:48:33.479Z

When I first decided to try Baked Parmesan Zucchini, I was looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. I was pleasantly surprised by how crispy they turned out without the added oil! When selecting zucchini, I like to choose medium-sized ones as they have the best texture for baking.

Next time I made them, I experimented with adding garlic powder and dried herbs, which enhanced the flavor even more. What’s great is that you can customize the topping according to your preference. These zucchini bites are guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful crispy coating that contrasts perfectly with tender zucchini
The nutty flavor of Parmesan enhances each bite
Simple ingredients make this dish budget-friendly and accessible

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchini for this recipe, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. Smaller zucchinis, about 6-8 inches long, tend to be sweeter and have fewer seeds. If you can find organic zucchinis, that's even better, as they often have better flavor and are more nutritious. Avoid oversized zucchinis, as they can be watery and have a spongy texture, which won’t hold up well to baking.

For a different flavor profile, consider using yellow squash or pattypan squash in place of zucchini. They will provide similar textures and absorb the delicious Parmesan and breadcrumb coating well. This can be especially fun if you want to introduce a bit of color to your dish and showcase seasonal produce.

Baking Tips for Perfectly Crispy Zucchini

To achieve that ideal crunchy texture, ensure that your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper and is preheated before adding the zucchini. A hot pan helps create a crispy base. Additionally, try to leave space between each slice on the baking sheet; crowding will cause steaming, leading to sogginess instead of crispiness. If you observe that the edges aren’t browning after 20 minutes, feel free to switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes for an extra crunch.

If you want to experiment with flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture for a hint of spice and smokiness. These additions can elevate the dish and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, nutty Parmesan coating.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for this scrumptious dish:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked Parmesan Zucchini:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchini into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick, and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Coat the Zucchini

In the bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Spray the zucchini slices lightly with olive oil spray, then toss them in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

Bake

Arrange the coated zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or a tasty snack!

Don’t forget to savor every bite!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino for a different taste.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help revive their crispy texture rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy. For best results, add a spritz of olive oil spray before reheating.

For a delightful twist, consider serving leftover zucchini in a zoodle salad or toss them into pasta dishes. Their crispy texture and cheesy flavor can bring new life to various recipes, making them a versatile ingredient even after they’ve been baked.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Parmesan Zucchini makes an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to hearty pasta. You can also serve them as a tasty appetizer at gatherings. Pair them with dipping sauces such as marinara, tzatziki, or a simple garlic aioli for an extra flavor boost.

For a complete meal, consider serving the zucchini alongside a fresh salad or incorporating them into a grain bowl with quinoa or brown rice. Adding some protein, like chickpeas or grilled shrimp, can turn this simple side into a satisfying lunch or dinner that’s still light and healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen zucchini?

It's best to use fresh zucchini for this recipe as frozen zucchini can become soggy when cooked.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breading mixture for an extra kick!

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.