Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, these Baked Zucchini Fries are a delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchini! Coated in a crunchy parmesan-panko mixture and baked to perfection, they make an excellent side dish or snack. Serve them with your favorite pizza sauce or marinara for the ultimate dipping experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy & Flavorful: Light and crunchy on the outside, soft and tender inside.
Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried for a lighter option.
Easy & Quick: Simple steps and ready in under 30 minutes!
Perfect Snack or Side: Serve as an appetizer or alongside your favorite meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. zucchini
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (for serving)
Directions
Prep the Zucchini
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220°C) and line a baking sheet with a wire cooling rack for better airflow.
- Cut the zucchini into matchsticks about ½-inch wide and 3 inches long.
Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until fully combined.
- In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and ¼ tsp salt.
Coat the Zucchini
- Place the zucchini sticks in a large bowl and sprinkle them with flour and the remaining ¼ tsp salt. Toss to evenly coat.
- Dip each zucchini stick into the whisked egg, letting any excess drip off.
- Roll the zucchini in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
Bake the Fries
- Arrange the coated zucchini on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even crisping.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy
- Let the zucchini fries cool for a minute, then serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips & Variations
Extra Crispy? Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a crunchier texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko.
More Flavor? Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the coating mix.
Dipping Sauce Ideas: Swap pizza sauce for ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a salad for a light meal.
Serve as an appetizer with pasta or pizza.
Enjoy as a side to grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or air-fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp up again.
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Panko is best for a crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs will still work.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prep and coat the zucchini, then bake when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have Parmesan?
You can substitute with pecorino cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar effect.
Conclusion
These Baked Zucchini Fries are the ultimate crispy, cheesy, and delicious snack or side dish. With a crunchy parmesan coating and a soft, flavorful inside, they’re sure to be a hit at any meal. Try them today for a healthier take on classic fries!
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries – a healthy, cheesy, and flavorful snack! Coated in parmesan and panko, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for dipping!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. zucchini
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
-
Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220°C) and line a baking sheet with a wire cooling rack for better airflow.
-
Cut the zucchini into matchsticks about ½-inch wide and 3 inches long.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
-
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until fully combined.
-
In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and ¼ tsp salt.
Step 3: Coat the Zucchini
-
Place the zucchini sticks in a large bowl and sprinkle them with flour and the remaining ¼ tsp salt. Toss to evenly coat.
-
Dip each zucchini stick into the whisked egg, letting any excess drip off.
-
Roll the zucchini in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
Step 4: Bake the Fries
-
Arrange the coated zucchini on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even crisping.
-
Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
-
Let the zucchini fries cool for a minute, then serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Using a wire rack helps keep the fries crisp by allowing airflow underneath.
- These fries are best enjoyed fresh, as they soften when stored.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Baked Zucchini Fries, Zucchini Fries Recipe, Healthy Zucchini Snack, Parmesan Zucchini, Crispy Baked Zucchini