📝 Introduction
Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fries? These Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries are crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with garlicky, cheesy goodness. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and are perfect for dipping in marinara, ranch, or aioli. Whether you’re cutting carbs, sneaking in more veggies, or just love zucchini, this recipe is a total win.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Zucchini Fries:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low carb)
Optional for Dipping:
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Ranch dressing
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Cut the Zucchini
- Wash and dry the zucchini.
- Cut each zucchini in half crosswise, then slice each half into fries about ½ inch thick and 3–4 inches long.
Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Bread the Zucchini
- Dredge each zucchini fry in the flour, tapping off excess.
- Dip it into the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
- Place the breaded fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!
🍴 Method Summary
| Step | Method | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven & prepare tray | Use parchment for easy cleanup |
| 2 | Cut zucchini into fries | Keep sizes even for uniform baking |
| 3 | Set up breading stations | Use three bowls for efficiency |
| 4 | Bread each fry | Press breadcrumbs in for crunch |
| 5 | Bake until crispy | Flip halfway for even browning |
| 6 | Serve hot | Dip in sauce & enjoy! |
💡 Tips & Variations
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a twist on flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of panko and regular flour.