If you’re looking for a simple yet absolutely delicious way to enjoy your zucchini, the Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe is a true winner. It combines tender slices of zucchini with the rich, nutty flavor of baked parmesan cheese, accented by a hint of garlic and basil. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also brings a crispy, golden cheesy top that makes it irresistible. Whether as a side or a light snack, this recipe showcases zucchini in its best, most flavorful form.

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Every item is chosen to bring out the natural freshness of zucchini while layering on warmth, aroma, and a delightful crispy finish.

Zucchini: Use 3 small or 2 medium zucchinis, the base of the recipe providing tender, slightly sweet flesh.
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons to drizzle over the slices, helping them bake to golden perfection and adding richness.
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon for that subtle, savory depth that wakes up the palate.
Basil: 1/2 teaspoon to infuse a fresh, herbaceous note balancing the cheese’s richness.
Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for enhancing all the natural and added flavors.
Grated parmesan and pecorino cheese: 1/2 cup (or just parmesan if preferred), for the crispy, golden baked topping full of umami charm.

How to Make Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 450°F (230°C). If yours has a fan setting, setting it to 400°F (200°C) works just as well. Position the oven rack one shelf above the center to make sure that top layer of cheese crisps up beautifully without burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat dry to prevent sogginess. Cut them into thick slices—about half an inch thick—to ensure they hold their shape during baking and develop a perfect tender bite that contrasts with the crisp topping.

Step 3: Season the Slices

Lay the zucchini slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, then toss gently to coat each slice evenly. Spreading the slices out in a single layer is key for even cooking and browning.

Step 4: Add the Herbs and Cheese

Sprinkle the garlic powder and basil directly over the zucchini, then generously top each slice with the grated parmesan and pecorino cheese. This cheese layer is the star that transforms simple zucchini into a crave-worthy dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 9 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese starts to bubble. Then switch on the broiler and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning and watch the cheese turn into a gorgeous golden crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the zucchini cool just enough to handle, then dig in! The combo of warm, tender zucchini with that crispy cheesy top is pure comfort on a plate.

How to Serve Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped basil leaves on top adds a lively green color and brightens the rich flavors. A light squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also add a fresh zing that lifts every bite.

Side Dishes

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or even a hearty pasta. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or a grain bowl for balance and variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these zucchini slices stacked and drizzled with a balsamic glaze for an elegant appetizer. You can also chop them and fold into a warm quinoa salad or toss with pasta for a quick, cheesy dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked parmesan zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

This dish doesn’t freeze as well because the texture of the zucchini changes, and the crispy cheese topping may become soggy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

To reheat, place the zucchini slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and the cheese topping crisps up again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the cheese rubbery and the zucchini watery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While parmesan and pecorino provide the best crispy and nutty flavor, you can experiment with romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist. Just keep in mind how the cheese melts and crisps.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

This recipe is traditionally made with parmesan cheese, which is not vegan, but you can swap in a vegan parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast to keep the flavor cheesy yet plant-based.

Can I use zucchini noodles instead of slices?

Zucchini noodles won’t work well with this recipe because the method relies on thick slices to hold up under baking and create a crispy topping. Thin noodles would become mushy.

What if I don’t have garlic powder?

You can substitute with fresh minced garlic or garlic salt, though the flavor will be more intense with fresh garlic. Adjust the seasoning carefully to avoid overpowering the delicate zucchini.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check your cheese and seasoning labels for any hidden gluten additives.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about this Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe. It’s quick, flavorful, and embodies the perfect harmony between fresh vegetables and crispy cheese. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it soon—you might just find it becoming one of your favorite ways to enjoy zucchini in no time at all!

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 69 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 19 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe is a quick and delicious side dish featuring tender zucchini slices coated with olive oil, seasoned with garlic and basil, and topped with a flavorful blend of Parmesan and Pecorino cheese. Baked until golden and crispy, it’s perfect for a healthy snack or accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

3 small or 2 medium zucchini

Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Other Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan and Pecorino cheese (or just Parmesan)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or 400°F (200°C) if using the fan setting. Position the oven rack one shelf above the center to ensure even baking and browning.
Prepare the zucchini: Wash and thoroughly dry the zucchini to remove any excess moisture. Slice them into thick rounds about 1/2 inch (1 1/4 cm) thick to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
Season the zucchini: Arrange the sliced zucchini on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then add salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to make sure all slices are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
Add additional seasoning and cheese: Sprinkle garlic powder and basil evenly over the zucchini slices. Top each with a generous amount of the grated Parmesan and Pecorino cheese mixture to add a rich, savory crust.
Bake and broil: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the zucchini for 9 minutes. Then switch the oven to the broiler setting and broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or appetizer for your meal. Enjoy your delicious baked Parmesan zucchini!