Baked Parmesan Zucchini

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini is the ultimate side dish, offering a crispy, cheesy, and deliciously satisfying flavor profile. It’s quick, easy, and an ideal way to get more veggies on your plate. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a side dish to accompany your main course, this recipe will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the light, fresh taste of zucchini with the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. It’s super easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The zucchini comes out tender with a crisp, golden cheese topping, providing the perfect contrast of textures. Plus, it’s a low-carb, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly option that will please a variety of diets. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with other dishes, this Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 to 1/2-inch rounds

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan (pre-shredded is also fine)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a broil-safe baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup (optional).

2. Place the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss the slices until they are well-coated. Spread the slices into a single layer.

3. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.

4. Top each zucchini slice with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake in the center rack of the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is just fork-tender.

6. Set the broiler to high and broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 to 5 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 17 minutes

Variations

• Add garlic: For a richer flavor, sprinkle minced garlic over the zucchini slices before baking.

• Herbs: Add dried or fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to the Parmesan for a more aromatic flavor.

• Other cheeses: Try mixing in a little mozzarella with the Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy texture.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

• Low-fat: Use a reduced-fat Parmesan for a lighter option without sacrificing too much flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or until warm. For a crispier texture, place the slices under the broiler for a couple of minutes.

FAQs

How do I make sure the zucchini slices cook evenly?

Make sure to slice the zucchini into even rounds and spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures each slice cooks at the same rate.

Can I use other vegetables in place of zucchini?

Yes! You can use other vegetables like eggplant or yellow squash in place of zucchini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake the zucchini at a high temperature and broil it at the end for a crispy, golden texture. The oil also helps keep the zucchini from becoming soggy.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Yes, pre-shredded Parmesan works well, though freshly grated Parmesan will provide a better flavor and texture.

How do I know when the zucchini is done?

The zucchini should be fork-tender when you insert a fork into it. You can also check the color of the cheese—when it turns golden and bubbly, it’s time to take it out.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the zucchini and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready to serve. You can also bake it fully, then reheat it before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this Baked Parmesan Zucchini is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for low-carb or keto diets.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft?

To prevent overcooking, make sure you don’t bake the zucchini for too long in the first step. Check the doneness after 10 minutes and broil for a few minutes to add texture.

Can I freeze Baked Parmesan Zucchini?

While freezing is possible, the texture may change once reheated. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.

Can I add breadcrumbs to the top for extra crunch?

Yes, adding breadcrumbs to the top of the zucchini before broiling can give it a nice extra crunch. Just mix breadcrumbs with a little olive oil and Parmesan before sprinkling it on top.

Conclusion

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick side. The combination of tender zucchini and crisp, golden Parmesan makes it a dish everyone will love. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a healthy way to enjoy more vegetables in your meals. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a go-to recipe for so many!