Zucchini baking recipes are the perfect solution when you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and easy way to use up fresh zucchini. These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Bites are golden on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with garlic-herb flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or prepping a healthy snack, this baked zucchini recipe is a must-try.
In under 40 minutes, you can turn humble garden zucchini into a cheesy, crunchy, crowd-pleasing dish that works as an appetizer, side, or even a guilt-free snack.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A simple way to elevate fresh zucchini
- Baked, not fried—healthier without losing crispiness
- Packed with flavor from Parmesan and Italian herbs
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Great as a party appetizer, side dish, or salad topper
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Cooking spray or extra oil for baking sheet
- Optional: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. - Slice the Zucchini
Wash and pat zucchini dry. Cut into ¼-inch thick rounds for even baking. - Make the Breading Mix
In a medium bowl, mix Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. - Coat the Zucchini
In a separate bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil. Press each slice into the Parmesan mix to fully coat both sides. - Arrange on Pan
Place slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, spacing them out for crispiness. - Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. - Cool & Serve
Let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your favorite dip.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Beginner
Nutrition Facts (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
Tips & Variations
- 🔥 Add Heat: Mix in red pepper flakes for a spicy version
- 🧀 Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor
- 🌈 Zucchini Alternatives: Try yellow squash or eggplant rounds
- ❄️ Freezer Friendly: Flash freeze slices, then store in freezer bag up to 1 month
- 💡 Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes for extra crisp
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a crunchier texture. Regular works in a pinch.
Q: Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes. Coat and refrigerate up to 4 hours ahead. Bake just before serving.
Q: What dip pairs best with baked zucchini?
Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or a yogurt herb dip all pair well.
Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Bites
Equipment
- – Mixing bowls
- – Baking sheet
- – Knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- – 2 medium zucchinis
- – ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- – ½ tsp salt
- – ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
- – Cooking spray or extra olive oil for greasing
- – Optional: Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Slice zucchinis into ¼-inch rounds.
- In a bowl, mix Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss zucchini in olive oil.
- Press each slice into breadcrumb mixture to coat.
- Arrange on baking sheet in single layer.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Cool slightly and serve with dip.
Notes
– Swap Pecorino for Parmesan for bolder flavor
– Great with marinara or creamy herb dips
Conclusion
When it comes to zucchini baking recipes, this crispy baked Parmesan version is a standout. It’s quick, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cleaning out your fridge or entertaining friends, these golden bites make zucchini shine in the tastiest way possible.
Serve them with a dip, stack them as mini sliders, or sprinkle over salad—whatever you do, this recipe is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.