These crunchy Parmesan zucchini fries are a fun twist on regular fries! Coated in cheesy goodness, they are baked until golden and crispy. Perfect as a snack or a side dish.
Let’s be real, who needs regular fries when you have these tasty veggies? I love dipping them in marinara sauce—it’s like a party in my mouth every time! 🎉
Making these fries is super easy. Just slice up the zucchini, coat them in cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake! They disappear fast at my house—no leftovers here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This vegetable is the star of the dish. Choose firm zucchinis without soft spots. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can substitute with eggplant or yellow squash for a similar texture.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a fantastic crunch. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs work, but they won’t be as crunchy. You can also make your own from stale bread if you’re feeling creative!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a robust flavor. If you’re short on Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper kick, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Eggs: They help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini. If you’re vegan, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, mixed and let sit) or a store-bought egg replacer.
Seasoning: Garlic and onion powders add loads of flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like Italian seasoning or paprika for a little extra kick!
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini Fries Are Super Crispy?
A common challenge in getting crispy zucchini fries is moisture. Zucchini has a high water content, which can make them soggy. To combat this, you can salt the sliced zucchinis lightly for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture. Then, pat them dry before dipping them in egg.
- Preheat your oven as directed for the best heat distribution.
- Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Flipping them halfway through cooking allows for browning on both sides.
- A light spritz of cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil helps them brown without being greasy.
How to Make Tasty Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Fries:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze later on.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice each zucchini into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Make sure the slices are even so they cook uniformly!
3. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed and ready to use.
4. Beat the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the zucchini slices.
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice, dip it into the egg mixture, and then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the crumbs stick well. You want each slice to be nicely coated!
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated zucchini slices on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them! Once they’re all laid out, lightly spray or drizzle some olive oil over the top for extra crunch.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the zucchini fries halfway through baking to ensure they get golden brown and crispy on both sides.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done baking, remove the zucchini fries from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, and if you like, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delicious and healthy snack!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as eggplant, sweet potatoes, or even bell peppers. Just be sure to cut them into similar thickness to ensure even cooking and adjust the baking time as necessary. Thicker slices may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs will work as well. For a gluten-free option, you can use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Keep in mind that panko tends to create a lighter, crispier texture, so the result might be a bit different.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore their crunch. You can also use an air fryer if you have one for quicker reheating!
Can I Make Parmesan Zucchini Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the zucchini slices and coat them before baking! Simply keep them covered in the fridge for up to a few hours before baking. If you want to prepare them further in advance, consider freezing them after coating but before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
