There’s something irresistible about crispy, cheesy zucchini fresh from the oven. If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dish, Cheesy Baked Zucchini Towers are the perfect solution. These bite-sized, golden-baked zucchini stacks offer a delicious combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and black pepper, making them an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully. When baked with cheese and spices, it transforms into a crispy, savory treat that’s healthy yet indulgent. Whether you’re serving these zucchini towers at a dinner party, as a side to grilled meats, or as a fun snack for kids, they are guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Cheesy – A crunchy coating with a gooey Parmesan flavor.
✔ Healthy & Low-Carb – A nutritious alternative to fried snacks.
✔ Easy & Quick – Minimal prep and ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Kid-Friendly – A fun way to encourage kids to eat more veggies.
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Serve as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Zucchini Towers
Gather these simple ingredients before you start:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large zucchini (sliced thin) | 2 |
| Eggs (beaten) | 2 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¾ cup |
| Flour (any type) | ⅓ cup |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Zucchini Towers
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
2. Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix together:
- Flour
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
3. Coat the Zucchini
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
- Dredge the zucchini slices in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.
4. Assemble the Zucchini Stacks
- Place coated zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet.
- Stack 2-3 slices on top of each other, depending on the thickness.
5. Bake the Zucchini Towers
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the zucchini towers cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Towers
✔ As a Side Dish
Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced meal.
✔ As a Party Appetizer
Serve with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
✔ As a Healthy Snack
Enjoy them on their own as a crunchy, satisfying treat.
✔ With Pasta or Salad
Pair with a pasta dish or fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
Freezing Option:
- Freeze uncooked, coated zucchini slices in a single layer before baking.
- Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Calcium | 150mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try using cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
2. What if I don’t have flour?
You can replace the flour with almond flour, breadcrumbs, or crushed pork rinds.
3. Can I fry these instead of baking?
Absolutely! Fry in hot oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
5. Can I add extra seasoning?
Yes! Add smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for more flavor.
6. What’s the best way to slice zucchini for this recipe?
Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to ensure even, thin slices for better stacking.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Cheesy Snack
Cheesy Baked Zucchini Towers are the perfect crispy, cheesy, and healthy dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or a fun appetizer, these zucchini stacks will satisfy your cravings without guilt.
Try this simple, delicious recipe today and bring a crunchy, cheesy delight to your table!