Baked Parmesan Zucchini Slices
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Slices are a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful snack or side dish featuring tender zucchini rounds coated in a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust. This simple, healthy recipe is perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or side, loved by kids and adults alike for its irresistible texture and savory taste.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, washed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for coating
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash your zucchinis thoroughly and slice them evenly into ¼-inch thick rounds to ensure uniform baking and optimal crunch.
- Create the coating mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Coat the zucchini slices: Lightly brush or spray each zucchini slice with olive oil. Then, press both sides of each slice into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, making sure they are fully coated.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to help them crisp properly.
- Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the zucchini slices for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through baking to achieve a golden brown, crispy crust on both sides.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to cut uniform zucchini slices for even baking.
- Pat the zucchini slices dry before coating to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—give each slice space for maximum crispiness.
- Preheat the oven thoroughly to help the coating crisp quickly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better flavor and melt quality.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute Italian breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
- Variations: add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, mix in dried herbs like oregano or basil, swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago, or add lemon zest for brightness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
- Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: baked zucchini, parmesan zucchini, crispy zucchini slices, healthy snacks, gluten-free appetizer, cheesy zucchini, low carb snack