These crispy parmesan garlic zucchini fries are a healthier twist on traditional fries, baked until golden and crunchy with a cheesy, garlicky coating. I love serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish—they’re irresistible, especially with a good dipping sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it turns simple zucchini into a crave-worthy treat. The parmesan and panko give the fries a crispy texture, while the garlic and paprika add flavor without being overpowering. They’re baked instead of fried, so I can enjoy them guilt-free, and they pair perfectly with marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Zucchinis, cut into fries
- All-purpose flour
- Large eggs, beaten
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Directions
- I preheat my oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- I set up a breading station with three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the last.
- I dredge each zucchini fry in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- I place the coated fries in a single layer on the baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil.
- I bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- I serve hot with my favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes 15 minutes to prep and 20–25 minutes to bake, so in about 40 minutes I have crispy zucchini fries ready to enjoy.
Variations
Sometimes I swap the Parmesan for pecorino or asiago for a different cheesy flavor. I also like adding cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick. For a low-carb option, I use almond flour instead of regular .
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes to bring back the crispiness. I don’t recommend microwaving since it makes them soft.
FAQs
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Yes, I cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, I leave the skin on—it adds color, nutrients, and helps the fries hold their shape.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, I use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What dipping sauces go best?
I love serving them with marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
How do I keep them extra crispy?
I make sure to pat the zucchini dry before breading, spread them in a single layer, and spray lightly with oil before baking.
Conclusion
These crispy parmesan garlic zucchini fries are one of my favorite ways to enjoy zucchini. I love the crunchy coating, the cheesy garlic flavor, and how well they pair with dipping sauces. Whether I make them as a fun appetizer, snack, or side, they always disappear fast at the table.
PrintCrispy Parmesan Garlic Zucchini Fries
These crispy parmesan garlic zucchini fries are baked until golden and crunchy with a cheesy, garlicky coating. A healthier alternative to traditional fries, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into fries
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up breading station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each zucchini fry in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
- Place coated fries in a single layer on the baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil.
- Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with dipping sauce of choice.
Notes
- Pat zucchini dry before breading for crispier fries.
- Swap Parmesan for pecorino or asiago for a flavor twist.
- Add cayenne or chili powder for extra heat.
- Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a low-carb, gluten-free version.
- Best served fresh, as they lose crispiness when stored too long.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about ¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 90mg