Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Name: Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Bites

I absolutely love making Baked Parmesan Zucchini as a quick and delicious side dish. The crispy, cheesy topping perfectly complements the tender zucchini, and it's a healthier alternative to traditional breaded vegetables. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up this dish that not only satisfies my cravings but also adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Trust me, you'll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:04:35.605Z

When I first tried Baked Parmesan Zucchini, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform into such a flavorful dish. The secret is to slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning elevates the flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful.

This recipe is perfect for using up any extra zucchini from my garden. I often make a double batch to enjoy leftovers the next day. They reheat beautifully and can be added to salads or served alongside grilled meats for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The cheesy, crispy topping adds irresistible flavor to the tender zucchini.
It’s a light, healthy dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal.
Very quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The Role of Ingredients

The combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a crunchy texture on top of the zucchini. The Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish, while the breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free counterparts or even crushed almonds for a unique flavor twist.

Olive oil is essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior. It helps the coating adhere to the zucchini and promotes even browning in the oven. Don't skip this step! If you're looking for a healthier option, try using a spray bottle to lightly mist the zucchini instead of drizzling, ensuring an even coating.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When arranging the zucchini on the baking sheet, make sure they are in a single layer with space between them. This ensures that the hot air circulates around each piece, allowing for better crisping without steaming. If you overcrowd the pan, you may end up with soggy zucchini instead of the desired crispy texture.

Keep an eye on the zucchini while they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness after 15 minutes. They should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the topping should be golden brown. If the topping isn't browning as expected, you can finish them under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes—just be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to start making this delicious dish!

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

You’re now ready to prepare your dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Baked Parmesan Zucchini!

Prepare the zucchini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchini into uniform rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix the coating

In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.

Coat the zucchini

Drizzle olive oil over the zucchini slices, ensuring they are well coated. Then, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously on top of each zucchini round.

Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the topping is golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Baked Parmesan Zucchini warm!

Enjoy your deliciously baked dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Baked Parmesan Zucchini is an excellent dish to make ahead of time. You can slice and coat the zucchini up to 24 hours in advance. Simply keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. When you’re ready, just preheat the oven and bake them straight from the fridge—no need to bring to room temperature first.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the crispy topping may become soggy upon reheating. To revive the crispiness, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Parmesan Zucchini makes a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even pasta dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light salad and a slice of crusty bread to mop up any leftover juices.

For a fun twist, consider serving the zucchini as an appetizer. Cut the rounds into smaller bites and provide a dipping sauce such as marinara or a garlic aioli. This makes for a delightful starter and can turn your Baked Parmesan Zucchini into a party favorite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen zucchini?

Fresh zucchini is recommended for this recipe, as frozen zucchini may become too watery when baked.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini and coating in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble right before baking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds instead.

→ What can I serve with Baked Parmesan Zucchini?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or as part of a lighter salad.