Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a healthy, crispy snack or side dish made with fresh zucchini coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Oven-baked to golden perfection, they’re a delicious alternative to traditional fries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy texture without frying
- Kid-friendly way to enjoy vegetables
- Great as a snack, appetizer, or side
- Simple ingredients and easy prep
- Low-carb and gluten-free options available
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh zucchini
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut zucchini into fries or sticks.
- Set up breading stations: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of panko, Parmesan, and seasonings in the third.
- Dredge each zucchini stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange on the baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Use almond flour for a gluten-free option
- Add chili flakes or cayenne for heat
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano
- Serve with marinara or ranch dressing
- Make in an air fryer for extra crispiness
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness
- Not recommended for freezing due to moisture
FAQs
Can I use yellow squash instead?
Yes, it works the same way and offers similar texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
What dipping sauces go well?
Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo are great choices.
Can I skip the flour step?
Yes, but it helps the egg adhere better.
How do I keep them crispy?
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, and bake on a wire rack if possible.
Can I make them in advance?
Yes, prep and refrigerate the coated sticks, then bake when ready.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin adds texture and nutrients.
What’s the best way to cut the zucchini?
Into matchstick-size fries for even cooking.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs?
Yes, but panko gives a crunchier texture.
Are these good for kids?
Absolutely—they’re a tasty and healthy finger food.
Conclusion
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are the perfect blend of crispy and savory, offering a healthy twist on traditional fries. Whether served as a snack or side, they’re an easy way to enjoy more vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
Print
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a crispy, oven-baked alternative to traditional fries, featuring fresh zucchini coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut zucchinis into fry-sized sticks.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each zucchini stick in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange zucchini sticks on the baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- Use almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Pecorino Romano can be used instead of Parmesan for a stronger flavor.
- Air fryer version: cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in oven or air fryer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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