Crispy Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love these Crispy Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Fries because they’re the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and slightly cheesy! They’re easy to make, and the zucchini stays tender on the inside while the outside gets golden and crunchy. The Parmesan cheese and garlic powder elevate the flavor, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fries, yet just as satisfying!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fry shapes
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Zucchini: I start by cutting the zucchinis into fry-shaped pieces, making sure they’re all about the same size for even cooking.
2. Set Up Breading Station: I set up three shallow bowls:
   • In the first bowl, I add the flour and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • In the second bowl, I beat the eggs.
   • In the third bowl, I combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Coat the Zucchini Fries: I dip each zucchini fry into the flour first, coating it completely, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Prepare for Baking: I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. I arrange the zucchini fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.
5. Spray and Bake: I lightly spray the zucchini fries with olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven. I bake them for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
6. Serve: Once the zucchini fries are crispy and golden brown, I take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. I like to serve them with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Zucchini Fries: I can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture if I want to give the fries a little kick.
• Cheese: I can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar in place of Parmesan for a different flavor.
• Air Fryer: If I have an air fryer, I can cook the zucchini fries at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for extra crispiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, I can place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes, to help them regain their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make these zucchini fries gluten-free?

Yes, I can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these fries gluten-free.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, I can use regular breadcrumbs, though panko gives a lighter, crispier texture that I really love for these fries.

Can I make these zucchini fries ahead of time?

Yes, I can prep the zucchini fries, bread them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before baking. I recommend not coating them too far in advance to maintain their crispiness.

How can I make these zucchini fries extra crispy?

To make them extra crispy, I can spray them lightly with olive oil before baking, or even try baking them on a wire rack to allow air circulation around the fries.

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe, as frozen zucchini may release too much moisture during baking, making the fries soggy.

Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Fries are a delightful, healthier alternative to traditional fries, with a perfectly crispy coating and a savory, cheesy flavor. Whether I’m enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re always a hit. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it a go-to for any occasion!

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