Say hello to your next mouthwatering obsession: Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks. Imagine thick, tender zucchini slices roasted until golden, drenched with garlicky olive oil, then cloaked in bubbling layers of melty mozzarella and Parmesan. This dish is a vibrant celebration of texture and flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re seeking a vegetarian main or a side that boldly stands out, Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks will charm everyone at the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks is how just a few everyday ingredients come together to create something truly irresistible. Each component brings its own magic to the plate—simple, yes, but essential for hitting all the right flavor notes and making the dish pop with color and texture.
- Zucchini: Look for four medium-sized zucchinis; slicing them into thick “steaks” gives you that satisfying bite and ensures they don’t go mushy when roasting.
- Olive Oil: This helps the zucchini caramelize and allows all those delicious seasonings to really stick.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses everything with its unmistakable, savory aroma—don’t skimp here!
- Salt: Just half a teaspoon brings out the zucchini’s natural sweetness and keeps the flavors balanced.
- Black Pepper: A dash of ground pepper gives your cheesy steaks just a hint of warmth.
- Italian Seasoning: This adds that herby, comforting touch, making every bite a little reminder of your favorite Italian comfort foods.
- Mozzarella Cheese: One cup shredded—this is your gooey, melty layer that holds it all together.
- Parmesan Cheese: Just a quarter cup—you only need a little to get that salty, umami richness on top.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley brightens up the plate with both color and a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). For easy cleanup and perfect roasting, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spritz of cooking spray. This little bit of prep work not only makes your life easier later, but also helps the zucchini steaks cook evenly right from the start.
Step 2: Slice the Zucchini
Grab your zucchini and, using a sharp knife, slice each one lengthwise into ½-inch thick planks. The key is to make the pieces thick enough to hold their shape, so you get that signature “steak” feel—trust me, this step truly elevates your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks from basic veggie side to main event material!
Step 3: Mix Up the Flavored Oil
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This quick mixture smells like pure kitchen joy and will soak right into those zucchini planks, setting the stage for all the flavor that follows.
Step 4: Brush and Roast
Lay your zucchini slices in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each “steak” generously with the garlic-herb oil, making sure every inch gets coated. Pop the tray into the oven and let them roast for about 12 to 15 minutes; you’ll know they’re ready when they’re fork-tender but not falling apart.
Step 5: Cheese It Up and Broil
Once the zucchini are nicely roasted, take the pan out and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over each zucchini steak. Slide the pan back into the oven, but this time use the broiler setting. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted, golden, and irresistibly bubbly.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Let your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks cool for a minute or two before serving—this allows the cheese to set so it’s easier to serve. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and that fresh flavor lift.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley isn’t just for looks—it gives the finished dish a burst of color and brightness. If you love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving takes things up a notch. Even a twist of fresh cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of lemon zest can add excitement to your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks.
Side Dishes
These zucchini steaks thrive as a hearty side for grilled chicken, roasted fish, or pasta. They also shine alongside grain salads or atop a bed of lemony quinoa for a light vegetarian dinner. Honestly, their cheesy, garlicky richness means they can even headline your plate for a simple, meatless main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Fan the steaks out on a large platter for a dramatic effect, or stack them like lasagna slices to show off that cheesy layer. If you’re entertaining, serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks family-style or slice them into appetizer-sized pieces for an easy party platter. They’re just as delicious hot or at room temperature, so feel free to customize for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (although with Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks, that’s a big “if”!), just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days and still taste great the next day.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that zucchini releases water as it thaws, so the texture won’t be quite the same. If you do freeze them, layer parchment between stacks and seal in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the zucchini steaks on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is melty. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make them watery—oven reheating keeps them at their best.
FAQs
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash works beautifully in Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks. Just slice them the same way and follow the rest of the recipe—your dish will have a lovely, sunny twist.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are naturally gluten-free, making them a smart and delicious choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check your cheese and seasonings to be sure there are no additives.
Can I make these dairy-free?
You can definitely experiment with dairy-free cheeses—choose your favorite plant-based mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives. While the melt may differ, you’ll still get plenty of garlicky flavor and satisfaction.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! Simply use a blend of dried basil, oregano, and a touch of thyme or rosemary as a homemade substitute in your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks.
How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?
The key is slicing the zucchini thick enough and roasting at high heat. Be careful not to overcook them; they should be tender but hold their shape—the starring characteristic of unforgettable Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something cheesy, garlicky, and totally satisfying, Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks have you covered. Give this recipe a try—just once—and you’ll be hooked. Here’s to making vegetables the star of the show in the most delicious way!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Tender zucchini slices are roasted with garlic and topped with a cheesy blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Zucchini Steaks:
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ½-inch thick steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or cooking spray.
- Prepare zucchini: Arrange zucchini slices on the baking sheet.
- Mix seasoning: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brush the mixture over the zucchini.
- Roast zucchini: Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes until tender.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the zucchini and broil for 2-3 minutes until melted.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the oil mixture.
- You can use provolone or a mix of cheeses.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini steak
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
