Grilled Cheesy Zucchini Steaks with Garlic Butter – Must-Try Recipe!

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on February 5, 2025

Few dishes strike the perfect balance between simplicity and bold flavor like this Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Bake. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a light main course, or a way to use up an abundance of zucchini, this recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort.

Zucchini, known for its mild flavor and tender texture, soaks up the rich aromas of garlic, red pepper flakes, and extra-virgin olive oil before being baked to perfection with melty mozzarella and nutty Parmesan cheese. The final touch of fresh basil brings brightness and a touch of elegance, making this a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

What Makes This Dish So Special?

This recipe isn’t just another vegetable bake—it’s a perfectly crafted combination of flavors, textures, and techniques that result in an irresistible dish.

1. The Power of Garlic and Olive Oil

Garlic and olive oil are a match made in culinary heaven. When gently sautéed together, garlic infuses the oil with its rich aroma, creating a deep, savory base that coats every zucchini slice. This technique ensures the zucchini absorbs maximum flavor before even hitting the oven.

2. A Perfectly Balanced Heat

The addition of red pepper flakes provides just a touch of warmth, complementing the creamy cheese without overpowering the dish. If you enjoy a spicier kick, you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste.

3. Cheese That Elevates Every Bite

A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates the perfect contrast of textures. Mozzarella melts into a gooey, stretchy layer, while Parmesan forms a golden, crispy crust. The result? A baked zucchini dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

4. A Fresh, Herbaceous Finish

Once out of the oven, fresh basil adds a pop of color and brightness, bringing a hint of sweetness that balances the savory, cheesy flavors. This finishing touch makes the dish feel light, fresh, and perfect for any season.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds

Aromatics & Seasonings:

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
Kosher salt, to taste
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Cheese & Garnish:

2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (about ½ cup)
1 oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (about ½ cup)
2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into ¼-inch rounds and season with kosher salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Bake: Toss the zucchini slices with the garlic mixture and spread evenly in the baking dish. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2 minutes.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil and extra red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 180
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 250mg

This Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs tender roasted zucchini with golden, melted cheese and aromatic garlic. It’s perfect as a side dish or light main course!

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Bake

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with various meals or enjoy on its own. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

1. As a Standalone Dish

Thanks to the rich flavors and satisfying texture, this bake can be enjoyed as a light main course. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread and a glass of wine for an effortless yet elegant meal.

2. As a Side Dish

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Bake makes an excellent side dish for:

Grilled Chicken or Steak: The mild sweetness of zucchini complements the bold flavors of grilled meats.
Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside spaghetti with marinara or a creamy Alfredo pasta for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Seafood: A great companion to baked salmon, shrimp, or white fish.

3. Layered in a Sandwich or Wrap

Use the cheesy zucchini as a delicious filling for a sandwich or wrap, paired with roasted red peppers, fresh spinach, or grilled chicken.

4. Served Over Grains

Place the zucchini over quinoa, rice, or farro for a healthy, filling meal. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added depth.

Common Questions About This Recipe (FAQs)

1. How Do I Keep the Zucchini From Becoming Soggy?

Zucchini has a high water content, which can sometimes lead to a watery dish. To prevent this:

Salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, which can then be patted dry before baking.
Avoid overcrowding the baking dish. Spacing the zucchini evenly allows for better evaporation and crispiness.

2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the zucchini and garlic oil mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply assemble and add the cheese before placing it in the oven.

3. Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create the perfect balance, you can experiment with:

Gruyère: For a nutty, complex flavor.
Cheddar: For a sharper, bolder taste.
Goat Cheese: For a tangy, creamy alternative.

4. Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Yes! To make this dish dairy-free and vegan, swap out the mozzarella and Parmesan for plant-based cheese alternatives, and use nutritional yeast for extra umami flavor.

5. What Can I Substitute for Basil?

If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, try using:

Fresh parsley for a milder, herby touch.
Thyme for a subtle earthy flavor.
Oregano for a slightly more intense, Mediterranean-inspired taste.

6. Can I Use a Different Type of Squash?

Yes! This recipe works beautifully with other types of squash, such as:

Yellow squash for a slightly sweeter, buttery flavor.
Pattypan squash for a firmer texture.
Butternut squash (thinly sliced) for a richer, slightly nutty taste.

7. Can I Cook This Dish in an Air Fryer?

Yes! If using an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method results in a crispier finish.

8. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, though the texture may be softer.

9. Can I Add Protein to This Dish?

Yes! To turn this into a protein-rich meal, add:

Shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and hearty upgrade.
Crispy pancetta or bacon for a salty, savory contrast.
Chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost.

10. Is This Recipe Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly?

Yes! This dish is naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb lifestyle. Pair it with a protein source for a well-rounded, keto-approved meal.

Conclusion: A Simple Dish That Delivers Big Flavor

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Bake is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors. The combination of tender zucchini, aromatic garlic, a touch of spice, and golden, bubbly cheese makes this dish a go-to recipe for any occasion.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility—it can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even an appetizer, and it’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing side for a dinner party, or a healthy, satisfying dish to add to your meal prep rotation, this recipe has it all.

So next time you’re craving a savory, cheesy, and delicious way to enjoy zucchini, give this Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Bake a try—you won’t be disappointed!