If you’re craving a snack that hits all the right notes—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—you absolutely must try this Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe. The outside gets perfectly crunchy from the panko breadcrumbs, while the inside stays tender and juicy. The parmesan adds that irresistible savory punch, and the Italian seasoning brings a fragrant herb kick that feels just like a warm hug for your taste buds. This recipe is simple but impressive, perfect for sharing or sneaking a healthy treat all to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about celebrating the humble zucchini with a few standout ingredients that create a harmonious blend of texture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from adding crispness, depth, or just the right bit of seasoning to keep every bite exciting and delicious.
- 2 zucchinis: Firm and fresh, sliced into 1/4-1/2 inch rounds to get that perfect balance of tender inside and crispy outside.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps everything stick together while adding just a touch of richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds subtle heat and a little kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A magical blend of herbs that brings vibrant, aromatic notes lending this Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe its classic Italian charm.
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: These light, airy crumbs give the zucchini that irresistible crisp crunch.
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese: Melts and toasts beautifully, delivering savory umami goodness in every bite.
How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is crucial because it helps create that crispy exterior while keeping the zucchini tender on the inside. A hot oven is the secret to success!
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Slice your zucchinis into rounds about a quarter to a half inch thick and toss them into a large bowl. This ensures each piece gets plenty of room to be coated with all the flavor-packed ingredients that follow.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoned Coating
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan cheese. This mixture melds rich cheesiness with crisp breadcrumbs and herbal warmth, setting up the foundation for your zucchini’s incredible crunch and taste.
Step 4: Coat the Zucchini
Add the parmesan mixture to the zucchini slices and toss everything well until all pieces are evenly coated. If you find the mix is too dry, a tiny splash more olive oil will help everything cling better, boosting both texture and flavor in the final dish.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the coated zucchini slices out in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Give them enough space so they bake evenly without steaming, which keeps the coating crisp rather than soggy.
Step 6: Bake and Broil
Bake the zucchini for 4 to 5 minutes at 425°F, then switch your oven to broil. Broil for an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the parmesan is bubbly and melty—this step creates the signature crunch you’re after.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Remove your tray from the oven and let the zucchini cool for just a minute before digging in. This Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe is best enjoyed immediately while the coating is still perfectly crisp and warm.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor on top, complementing the Italian seasoning perfectly. A squeeze of lemon juice or a dusting of extra parmesan can also brighten each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with almost anything! Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light dinner, or pile on a bed of fresh greens and tomatoes for a delightful lunch. It’s also fabulous alongside pasta to add some crunchy texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the baking sheet and try serving your crispy zucchini in small cups as a snack, or layer them between slices of fresh bread with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a delightful zucchini melt sandwich. Perfect for impressing guests or jazzing up your weekly meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’ll hold onto much of their texture but are best re-crisped before serving again.
Freezing
While you can freeze these zucchini bites, they tend to lose some of their signature crispness when thawed. If freezing, place them in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid to prevent sticking.
Reheating
Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes to regain maximum crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of parmesan?
Absolutely! While parmesan is classic for its nutty and salty flavor, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work nicely too, offering a similar sharpness and great melting properties.
What is the best way to slice zucchini for this recipe?
Slice them into rounds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Too thin and they might burn or become mushy; too thick and they may not crisp properly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap regular panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adapt.
Is this zucchini recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
This recipe has a light breadcrumb coating which adds some carbs, but overall it’s a fairly low-carb vegetable dish. To reduce carbs further, try using crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
How do I make homemade Italian seasoning for this recipe?
Mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram with a sprinkle of garlic powder and red pepper flakes. It’s freshly fragrant and perfect for elevating this Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—easy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re after a crunchy snack or a tasty side dish, this zucchini is ready to steal the spotlight. Go ahead, bake up a batch and treat yourself to this comforting and delicious delight!
Print
Crispy Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Italian Seasoning Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Baked Zucchini recipe features tender zucchini slices coated in a savory mixture of olive oil, Italian seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection and broiled to achieve a delightful crispy topping. It’s a quick and easy side dish that offers a tasty, healthier alternative to fried zucchini.
Ingredients
Zucchini
- 2 zucchinis, sliced into 1/4–1/2 inch slices
Seasoning & Coating
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini slices evenly.
- Prepare Zucchini: Place the sliced zucchini into a large mixing bowl, ensuring all slices are ready for the coating.
- Mix Coating: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir well until the mixture is fully blended.
- Coat Zucchini: Pour the parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the zucchini slices and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Add a little more olive oil if the mixture seems dry to ensure even coverage.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation and crisping.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 4-5 minutes to start cooking through the zucchini.
- Broil: Switch the oven to broil and cook the zucchini for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the cheese has melted, creating a crispy texture.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and enjoy your crispy baked zucchini immediately as a delicious side dish or snack.
Notes
- Use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can adjust the seasoning to taste, such as adding garlic powder or paprika.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness, as the coating can soften if left to sit.
- This recipe pairs well with marinara sauce or a light ranch dip.
