Parmesan Zucchini Fries are crispy, golden, oven-baked zucchini sticks coated in Japanese panko and Parmesan cheese. They deliver all the crunch of classic French fries-without deep frying. Serve them hot with ranch dressing for a lighter snack, appetizer, or side dish.
If you're looking for a healthy baked alternative to fries, this recipe hits all the right notes: crispy outside, tender inside, and packed with savory cheese flavor.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice zucchinis into 3-inch lengths and 1/2-inch thick sticks. Beat eggs with salt and black pepper in a bowl.
- On a large plate, mix panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip zucchini sticks into beaten eggs, shake off excess, then roll in panko-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to coat well.
- Place coated zucchini on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with ranch dressing.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Crispy Without Deep Frying
These zucchini fries are baked at high heat, which creates a golden crust while keeping the inside soft and tender.
Simple Pantry Ingredients
You only need a handful of ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Eggs
- Japanese panko bread crumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper
Low-Calorie Snack
Because they're oven-baked instead of fried, they're lower in fat while still satisfying that fry craving.
Ingredients
- 3 small zucchinis
- 2 eggs
- 1 pinch salt
- Ground black pepper
- 2 cups Japanese panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Ranch dressing (for serving)
Parmesan cheese is the secret ingredient. It boosts flavor and helps the panko coating turn extra crispy in the oven.
How to Cut Zucchini Into Fries
- Trim off both ends.
- Cut each zucchini into 3-inch lengths.
- Slice each piece into 1/2-inch thick sticks.
Try to keep the sticks uniform in size so they bake evenly.
How to Make Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Beat eggs with salt and a few dashes of black pepper.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
On a large plate (not a bowl), mix panko and Parmesan cheese together.
Step 3: Coat the Zucchini
Dip zucchini sticks into beaten eggs, shaking off excess.
Roll in panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to coat well.
Place coated sticks on prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately with ranch dressing.
Air Fryer Option
Yes, you can use an air fryer.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
- Arrange zucchini fries in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
They'll turn beautifully crisp with slightly less baking time.
Tips for Extra Crispy Zucchini Fries
- Pat zucchini dry before coating to reduce moisture.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture.
- Flip halfway through baking for even browning.
What to Serve With Parmesan Zucchini Fries
These fries pair well with:
- Garlic butter steak
- Seafood pasta
- Pork chops
- Grilled chicken
- Burgers
They also make a great party appetizer or game-day snack.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 248 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
(Nutrition values are estimates.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use something other than eggs?
Yes. Milk can work as a substitute to help the coating stick.
Why aren't my breadcrumbs sticking?
Make sure excess egg is shaken off, but not too much. If needed, lightly dust zucchini with flour before dipping in egg.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They're best served fresh. However, you can reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to crisp them back up.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Zucchini Fries are the perfect way to enjoy seasonal zucchini in a fun, crispy format. With simple ingredients and no deep frying, they're an easy upgrade to traditional fries.
Serve them hot, dip generously in ranch, and enjoy every crunchy bite.
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