Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Name: Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I love making Baked Parmesan Zucchini as it offers a crunchy texture with a cheesy kick that turns this simple vegetable into a delightful dish. Whenever I feel like enjoying a light and healthy side, this recipe never disappoints. The combination of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and herbed breadcrumbs creates a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a snack on its own. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just a few minutes to prepare before it goes into the oven.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:53:36.018Z

When I first experimented with Baked Parmesan Zucchini, I wasn't sure if the kids would enjoy it. However, their surprised faces when they took a bite were priceless! I discovered that peeling the zucchini slightly before baking enhances the crunchiness, making it more appetizing for everyone.

Another tip is to let the zucchini slices sit with salt for a while to draw out excess moisture. This little trick really helps achieve that perfect crispy texture. No more soggy zucchini in my house!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp-tender zucchini coated in savory Parmesan cheese
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and low in calories, making it guilt-free indulgence

Perfecting Your Zucchini

Selecting the right zucchini is crucial for achieving the best texture. Aim for medium-sized zucchinis that feel firm and have smooth skin. Smaller zucchinis tend to have a sweeter flavor, while larger ones may be watery. When slicing, make sure your rounds are uniform in thickness, about 1/4-inch, to ensure even baking and a consistent crunch. If your zucchini are extra moist, you can lightly sprinkle them with salt and let them sit a bit longer before patting them dry to draw out additional moisture.

Another tip is to avoid overbaking the zucchinis. Watching them closely during the last few minutes of baking is essential. They should turn golden brown with crispy edges while still retaining a tender bite. If you prefer them even crispier, you can switch the oven to broil during the last minute of baking, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Coating Techniques

The coating is where this dish gets its famous cheesy crunch. I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and meltiness. Pre-grated cheese often has anti-caking agents that can inhibit a good melt, so take the extra step to grate it fresh. For the breadcrumbs, you can use either store-bought or make your own from whole wheat bread, which adds a nuttier flavor and a wholesome crunch.

To enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a subtle heat. Just be cautious; a little goes a long way. If you like a herby touch, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be mixed in with the coating as well for added color and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Parmesan Zucchini can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, for a well-rounded meal. They also work wonderfully as a topping for salads, adding crunch and a cheesy flavor contrast. For a casual snack, pair them with a marinara or ranch dip for a delightful appetizer that will please any crowd.

If you're making this for a party, consider arranging the zucchini on a platter with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat and regain their crunch, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes instead of microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Baked Parmesan Zucchini:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the zucchini and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place them on a clean kitchen towel, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.

Make the Coating

In a bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Coat the Zucchini

Pat the zucchini slices dry to remove excess moisture. Dip each slice into the cheese mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated.

Bake

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a side dish or snack!

For best results, serve immediately after baking.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.

Ingredient Variations

Incorporating different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile of this dish. Try using a mix of Parmesan and aged Gouda for a bolder taste or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist. You can also substitute part of the breadcrumbs with ground almonds or crushed nuts for a gluten-free alternative, adding a delightful crunch while keeping it healthy.

For those looking to up the nutritional value, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the breadcrumb mixture. They not only add flavor but also boost the dish's color and health benefits without taking away from the deliciously cheesy coating.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you plan to make a larger batch, it’s worthwhile to know how to store them properly. Once cooled, store any leftovers in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming soggy. If stored correctly, they can last for about three days in the refrigerator. However, they taste best when fresh out of the oven, so I suggest making smaller batches as needed.

When reheating, avoid the microwave as it tends to make the coating soft. Instead, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the zucchini back onto a baking sheet for about 5 to 10 minutes until they are heated through and regain their original crispiness. Trust me, this method will have them tasting almost as good as when they were first made.

Customizing for Dietary Needs

If you're looking for a vegan version of this recipe, consider using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor and a sprinkle of flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binder. The flaxseed will add a slight nutty flavor and help the coating stick to the zucchini.

For a lower-calorie option, you can skip the breadcrumbs altogether, opting instead for a light dusting of cornstarch mixed with Parmesan to create a crunchy exterior with fewer carbs. Just keep in mind the texture may differ slightly, but the cheesy taste will still shine through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with mozzarella or pecorino cheese if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

→ Can I freeze Baked Parmesan Zucchini?

While it's best fresh, you can freeze the baked slices. Just ensure they cool completely before freezing in a single layer.