Isn’t there something so heartwarming about the crunch of golden-baked zucchini, kissed with nutty Parmesan, fresh from the oven? This Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini brings together simple, wholesome ingredients for a cozy, family-style side that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Think of it as zucchini’s magical glow-up—from humble veggie to irresistible crispy chip-like rounds. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, this recipe is the perfect way to bring warmth and goodness to any table.
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Side Dish | 5 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings | ~115 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or lemon zest
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. - Slice & Dry
Slice the zucchinis into even ¼-inch rounds. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove moisture—this helps them crisp up beautifully. - Season & Coat
In a mixing bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. - Add the Cheese
Add most of the Parmesan cheese to the bowl, reserving 2–3 tablespoons. Gently toss so each slice is coated with cheesy goodness. - Arrange & Top
Lay the zucchini in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure slices don’t overlap. Sprinkle the reserved Parmesan cheese evenly over the tops. - Bake to Crisp
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through so both sides get golden and crisp. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges curl slightly and the cheese turns beautifully golden. - Garnish & Serve
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a minute, then add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a little lemon zest for brightness. Serve immediately—crispy and cozy!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Fresh Parmesan is key! It melts and browns better than pre-grated options, giving you those coveted crispy edges.
- Space matters. Crowding the baking sheet leads to steaming, not roasting—make sure each slice has room.
- Reheating tip: To keep that crisp texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy.
Recipe Variations
- Herbed Kick-Up: Mix in ¼ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary with the seasoning for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Zing: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the seasoning for a cozy, warming kick.
- Lighter Dairy Twist: Blend Parmesan with a tablespoon of panko (use gluten-free if needed) to lighten the dairy notes while maintaining crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty quinoa bowl for a comforting weeknight dinner. They also shine on appetizer platters—especially with a side of marinara or yogurt dip. Want to lighten things up? Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
Conclusion
These Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini rounds are a simple reminder that cozy comfort doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table, snacking during movie night, or lazing on the couch with loved ones, these golden, cheesy bites invite warmth, smiles, and just the right amount of crunch. Bake, savor, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy moment.