These crispy baked zucchini fries are coated in seasoned panko and Parmesan for a golden, crunchy crust without deep frying. They’re a delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 medium zucchinis, washed and sliced into fry-sized sticks (about 1/2 inch thick)
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free panko can be used as a substitute)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top if desired for extra crispiness.
Slice the zucchinis into uniform sticks about 1/2 inch thick.
Toss the zucchini sticks with the olive oil until lightly coated.
Prepare three breading stations: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or cayenne in a third bowl.
Dredge each zucchini stick in the flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres.
Arrange the coated zucchini fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, leaving space between each piece.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
Allow the fries to cool for a few minutes before serving for maximum crispiness.
Notes
For extra crispiness, bake the fries on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.
Serve with marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Gluten-free panko can be substituted for regular panko.
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.