If you’re on the hunt for a vegetable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, look no further than Baked Parmesan Zucchini. This recipe showcases tender zucchini rounds baked to golden perfection under a savory blanket of Parmesan, kissed with herbs, and finished with a hint of garlic. Whether you’re trying to jazz up your weeknight table or searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Baked Parmesan Zucchini is bound to become your go-to side for its incredible flavor, stress-free prep, and irresistible crunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is that it calls for just a handful of ingredients, all playing a pivotal role in the final dish. Each brings something unique—crispness, flavor, aroma, or color—so don’t be tempted to skip anything!
- Zucchinis: The star of the show, giving a delicate flavor and perfect texture when baked.
- Olive oil: Helps the zucchini caramelize and infuses richness into every bite.
- Garlic powder: Delivers a gentle, warm garlic taste without overpowering the zucchini.
- Italian seasoning: Adds a subtle herbal lift that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Salt: Heightens all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper: Offers a gentle heat and a touch of complexity.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a savory, golden crust that’s utterly addictive.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A burst of color and fresh flavor to accent the finished Baked Parmesan Zucchini.
How to Make Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking, but also makes cleanup a total breeze—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Step 2: Toss the Zucchini
Place your sliced zucchini rounds into a large bowl, then drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle toss, making sure every slice glistens with the seasoned oil for full-on flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Lay out your zucchini slices in a single layer on your prepared sheet. Don’t crowd the pan—space between rounds means you’ll get that beautiful golden edge on each piece instead of steaming them.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each slice of zucchini. The cheese is what forms that crave-worthy, crunchy topping that makes this dish stand out.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven for 15 to 18 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese turns golden and crisp. Want even more color and crunch? Slide the tray under the broiler for an extra 1 or 2 minutes—but keep a close eye so nothing scorches!
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once your Baked Parmesan Zucchini is out of the oven, shower the warm rounds with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like. Serve right away while everything is crisp and inviting.
How to Serve Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Garnishes
A handful of chopped fresh parsley adds a welcome pop of green and a hint of freshness to the cheesy richness. A light dusting of additional Parmesan or even a squeeze of lemon can brighten things up—feel free to have fun and make it your own!
Side Dishes
Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a true team player. It’s lovely alongside grilled chicken, baked fish, hearty pastas, or as part of a vegetarian spread. For parties, offer it with little bowls of marinara or ranch dressing for an easy (and delicious) dipping experience!
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the zucchini rounds on a wooden platter for a rustic feel, or layer them in a spiral on a colorful plate for extra wow-factor. Baked Parmesan Zucchini also shines stacked into mini towers with a toothpick through the center—perfect for bite-sized party snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, just pop them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll lose their signature crunch but still taste fantastic warmed up or even cold.
Freezing
While zucchini is generally best fresh, you can freeze baked rounds for up to one month. Spread them in a single layer on a sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Just be aware: the texture will soften upon thawing, so try to enjoy most Baked Parmesan Zucchini fresh if possible.
Reheating
Reheat in a 400°F oven or air fryer for about 5 minutes to revive as much crispiness as possible. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll trade off a little of that delicious texture for convenience.
FAQs
Can I make Baked Parmesan Zucchini vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast. You’ll still get plenty of savory flavor and that signature golden edge.
What type Side Dish
Medium zucchinis are perfect—they’re tender, have fewer seeds, and slice evenly. Very large zucchini may be a bit watery, so aim for four medium-sized ones for best results.
Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
You sure can. Toss your zucchini rounds in a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan just before baking to give each piece an extra crispy, golden coating. This twist makes Baked Parmesan Zucchini especially addictive!
How do I prevent soggy zucchini?
The trick is arranging the slices in a single, spaced-out layer and cranking up the oven’s heat enough—425°F works wonders. Avoid overlapping and pat the zucchini dry before seasoning for the best texture.
Can I slice the zucchini another way?
Definitely! Instead of rounds, you can cut the zucchini into sticks or long planks for a fun change. Adjust baking time a bit depending on thickness, but the delicious outcome is the same.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about transforming humble zucchini into such a crowd-pleaser. I hope Baked Parmesan Zucchini brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine—don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly favorite! Give this recipe a spin, and get ready for everyone to fall in love with vegetables all over again.
Print
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make side dish with this Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe. Tender zucchini rounds are coated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and crisp. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis (sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds)
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare zucchini: In a large bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Bake: Arrange zucchini on the baking sheet, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake for 15–18 minutes until tender and golden.
- Finish: Optional: broil for extra browning, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a crunchier version, coat zucchini slices in breadcrumbs and Parmesan before baking.
- Try slicing zucchini lengthwise for a different presentation.
- Pair with marinara or ranch for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
