Baked Zucchini Fries

There’s something magical about crispy snacks, especially when they’re as delightful as Baked Zucchini Fries. I remember the first time I tried making these at home; I was skeptical that zucchini could ever replace the classic potato fry. But one bite into these golden-brown bites, and I was hooked! They carried the perfect crunch on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, a wonderful surprise that I couldn’t resist. This dish isn’t just about satisfying a craving; it’s about enjoying a healthy alternative that feels indulgent. Whenever I have a gathering, these Baked Zucchini Fries always steal the show and leave everyone asking for the recipe. They’re a hit with friends and family alike, and let’s be honest, they make for a fun and satisfying snack any time of day.

Ingredient List for Baked Zucchini Fries

When it comes to making Baked Zucchini Fries, understanding the synergy between the ingredients is key. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving a delightful balance of flavor and texture.

• 1 cup Italian Panko: This gives the fries their signature crunch. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, perfect for achieving that golden crust.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor that enhances the taste of the fries. The cheese crisps up beautifully in the oven.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor that elevates the overall taste of the dish without overpowering the zucchini.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the best in the zucchini and the coating.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a slight kick and balances the richness of the cheese.
• 2 medium zucchinis: The star ingredient! Zucchini has a mild flavor that absorbs seasonings beautifully and maintains a great texture when baked.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: This is essential for creating a base layer that helps the egg and breadcrumbs adhere to the zucchini.
• 2 large eggs beaten: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the coating sticks to the zucchini slices during baking.
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves: A fresh touch that adds color and a burst of flavor to the dish, making it visually appealing.

Making Baked Zucchini Fries

Getting started with Baked Zucchini Fries is truly a breeze! The process is straightforward, allowing you to focus on the joy of cooking and the delicious outcome. Let’s dive right into the preparation and get your kitchen filled with the aroma of baked goodness.

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for achieving that crispy texture we all crave. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. Now, take your two medium zucchinis. Slice each zucchini in half, then half again, and finally into quarters. You want to have about 16 evenly-sized slices from each zucchini, which helps them cook uniformly.
3. In a shallow bowl or a pie plate, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients well so that every crunchy bite will be flavorful.
4. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In a separate pan, add the flour. This three-step setup will make the dredging process smooth and efficient.
5. Take each zucchini slice and first dip it into the flour. Make sure to coat it evenly, shaking off any excess. This initial layer is crucial as it helps the egg adhere better.
6. Next, dip the floured zucchini into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. This will create a sticky surface for the breadcrumbs.
7. Finally, dredge the zucchini slice in the seasoned Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. Repeat this process until all zucchini slices are coated.
8. Place the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; this will help them bake evenly and become crispy.
9. Once your oven is preheated, carefully place the baking sheet in. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until your zucchini fries are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-browning.
10. Once baked, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. They’ll be hot, so be patient! Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Ways to Customize

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some creative ways to customize your Baked Zucchini Fries.

• Spice It Up: Consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the Panko for an herby twist.
• Cheesy Variation: Swap out some of the Parmesan cheese for shredded mozzarella for a gooey inside.
• Add a Dip: Pair these fries with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or a homemade garlic aioli for an added flavor boost.
• Experiment with Dipping: Consider serving with a wide array of sauces from marinara to sweet chili for different flavor experiences.

Serving Options for Baked Zucchini Fries

When it comes to serving Baked Zucchini Fries, the possibilities are as endless as your creativity. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• As a Snack: Enjoy them as a quick snack in the afternoon or as a pre-dinner appetizer. They’re light but satisfying, making them perfect for in-between meals.
• Alongside Dishes: Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. Their crunch complements a variety of proteins beautifully.
• At Parties: Set them out at gatherings or parties. They’re a hit as finger food and can be easily served on platters with various dips.
• Perfect for Lunch: Pack them for lunch with a side of dip for a fun twist on your typical lunchbox fare.
• Seasonal Pairings: Pair them with fresh summer salads or grilled vegetables for a light and healthy summer meal.
• Storage Tips: Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They are best reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Baked Zucchini Fries stand out for their crispy texture and delectable flavor, making them a favorite in my home. They’re not just a healthier option for snacking; they also meet the craving for something crunchy and satisfying. I encourage you to try making them today and see how quickly they become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the process and share them with family and friends—you’ll be amazed at how popular they become!

Baked Zucchini Fries

Craving a healthier snack? Try these Baked Zucchini Fries! Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, they offer a delicious alternative to traditional fries. Perfect for parties or as a side dish, they’re sure to impress. Make them tonight for a satisfying treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Italian Panko
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 medium zucchinis
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs beaten
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Equipment

• Oven
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
2. Slice the zucchini in half, then half again, then into quarters. You should have 16 slices per zucchini.
3. In a shallow bowl, pie plate or cake pan combine the Panko, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. In a shallow bowl, pie plate or cake pan whisk eggs and in another pan add the flour.
5. Dip the zucchini in the flour, then into eggs and then dredge in the Panko mixture, pressing to coat.
6. Place zucchini onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Place a baking sheet with zucchini into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• How do you keep zucchini from turning soggy in the oven? For this recipe, the flour absorbs some of the moisture while the zucchini cooks so the breading stays nice and crispy! So, don’t skip the flour part for the breading.
• Can you make these ahead? I think they are best hot from the oven. The coating will soften as they sit. If you have leftovers, they will keep in the refrigerator but they won’t be as crispy when you reheat them.
• Can you cook them in an air fryer? Yes, but the cooking temperature and time are not the same so be sure to check out my air fryer zucchini fries recipe if you want to try it.

Previous PostLemon Chicken Meatball Soup

Next Post Crock Pot Whole Chicken

Meet Audrey Hayes

I’m Audrey! I founded Cozy Daily Recipes to help you find joy in the kitchen every single day. I personally test and approve every recipe we publish to ensure it’s worthy of your table. Whether I'm slow cooking a Sunday roast or whipping up a quick lunch, my goal is to make your cooking life easier and more delicious.