If you’ve ever wanted a side dish that’s both elegant and effortless, Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks will become your new go-to recipe. These thick, golden-browned zucchini slices are roasted (or air-fried) until tender on the inside, crisp on the edges, and blanketed with a bubbling layer of garlic butter, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
They’re the kind of dish that bridges the gap between indulgent and wholesome — low in carbs but rich in flavor, beautifully caramelized, and simple enough to throw together on a weeknight. Whether you’re serving steak and need a lighter side, or you’re leaning into meatless Monday, these zucchini “steaks” hit the sweet spot.
Let’s walk through how to turn this humble vegetable into a crave-worthy, cheesy masterpiece that will steal the spotlight on your dinner table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
- Rich, cheesy flavor: Every bite has melty mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and buttery garlic.
- Healthy and low-carb: All the satisfaction of comfort food without the heaviness.
- Quick to make: Ready in about 20 minutes start to finish.
- Flexible cooking methods: Perfect for oven roasting, grilling, or air frying.
- Kid-approved: A fun, cheesy way to get everyone eating more vegetables.
- Perfect side or main: Pairs beautifully with chicken, steak, or pasta — or stands alone as a light meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 large zucchinis (about 1 ½ pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon for finishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the zucchini:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash zucchinis and slice lengthwise into thick planks — about ¾ inch each. Trim off the stem ends.
2. Make the garlic butter mixture:
In a small bowl, stir together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush and roast:
Arrange zucchini steaks on the prepared sheet. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture, coating each one well. Roast for 10–12 minutes until tender but not mushy.
4. Add the cheeses:
Remove from the oven. Sprinkle each zucchini steak with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Broil to perfection:
Switch the oven to broil. Broil for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown. Watch closely — it can brown fast!
6. Finish and serve:
Sprinkle with parsley or basil. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon if you like brightness. Serve warm.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Brush zucchini with garlic butter and air fry for 8 minutes. Open, sprinkle cheese, and cook 2–3 more minutes until melted and golden.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
These zucchini steaks are a versatile superstar in your meal rotation. Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a juicy ribeye for a low-carb dinner that still feels satisfying.
If you’re vegetarian, these make a great main course. Stack them up and serve over quinoa or pasta tossed with extra garlic butter. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or marinara sauce transforms them into an Italian-inspired entrée.
For brunch, top with a poached egg and a sprinkle of chili flakes — it’s a fancy but easy twist on eggs Florentine.
If you’re planning appetizers, slice each zucchini steak in half and serve them on a platter with a small bowl of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. The crisp edges and gooey cheese make them irresistible finger food.
Wine pairing: Try a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a fresh contrast to the rich cheese. Prefer something non-alcoholic? A sparkling lemon water or iced green tea pairs beautifully.
Want to double down on flavor? Drizzle a little extra garlic butter over the top just before serving. Every bite will taste like heaven.
How to Store Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they store well for later, too.
To refrigerate:
Let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat:
- Oven method (best): Place on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until warm and melty.
- Air fryer method: Reheat at 350°F for 3–4 minutes for crispy edges.
- Microwave method: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30–40 seconds, though this will soften the texture.
To freeze:
Freeze before adding cheese for best texture. Place cooled, roasted zucchini planks on a tray and freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly.
Pro tip: Zucchini holds a lot of water, so reheating at higher heat (oven or air fryer) helps restore crispness.
If you meal prep, you can roast the zucchini ahead of time and add cheese right before serving for a just-baked flavor.
Tips to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Perfect Every Time
- Choose medium zucchinis: Large ones have more seeds and moisture. Medium zucchini cook evenly and hold their shape.
- Cut evenly: Consistent thickness means even cooking.
- Don’t overbake: Zucchini turns soft quickly; aim for fork-tender, not mushy.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Add cheese at the end: Broiling at the last minute gives that perfect bubbly crust.
- Try flavored butters: Mix in lemon zest, rosemary, or roasted garlic for a twist.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds over the cheese layer before broiling.
- Balance flavors: A squeeze of lemon or a dash of red pepper flakes keeps the richness in check.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can tweak these zucchini steaks to fit your mood — from simple garlic butter to full-on Italian comfort.
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
- Italian Zucchini Steaks:
Top with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and basil for a pizza-style version. - Bacon Cheddar Zucchini Steaks:
Sprinkle cooked bacon bits and cheddar before broiling for smoky flavor. - Keto Zucchini Parmesan:
Skip the breadcrumbs and add a thicker layer of mozzarella and Parmesan — serve with keto marinara. - Caprese Zucchini Steaks:
Add tomato slices and fresh mozzarella before broiling. Drizzle with balsamic glaze to finish. - Spicy Tex-Mex Zucchini Steaks:
Season with taco seasoning, top with pepper jack cheese, and finish with cilantro and salsa. - Air Fryer Mini Steaks:
Cut zucchini into shorter lengths and air fry for quick snacks or sides. - Vegan Version:
Use vegan mozzarella and dairy-free butter. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks adapt beautifully to any diet or craving — a true kitchen chameleon that fits weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
FAQs
1. How do I keep zucchini from turning soggy?
Cut thick slices and cook at high heat (425°F) for shorter periods. Avoid overcrowding the pan — space helps moisture evaporate.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the zucchini first and refrigerate. Add cheese and broil right before serving.
3. Can I use yellow squash instead?
Absolutely. It cooks the same way and adds beautiful color contrast.
4. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella for melt, Parmesan for flavor, but you can mix in provolone, gouda, or Monterey Jack for fun twists.
5. Are these keto-friendly?
Yes — they’re naturally low in carbs and fit perfectly into a keto or low-carb meal plan.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks prove that vegetables don’t have to be boring. With a handful of ingredients and a quick broil, you’ll have a dish that’s creamy, garlicky, and satisfying enough to rival your favorite comfort foods.
Whether you’re serving them beside grilled meat, tossing them on pasta, or eating them straight from the pan (no judgment here), these zucchini steaks deliver every time.
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Print
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are tender, buttery, and topped with golden bubbly cheese — the perfect low-carb side or vegetarian main dish, ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 3 large zucchinis (about 1½ pounds)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Slice zucchinis lengthwise into ¾-inch planks.
3. Mix butter, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush zucchini with garlic butter mixture.
5. Roast 10–12 minutes until tender.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For best results, choose medium zucchinis for even cooking.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or lemon zest for brightness.
Air fryer method: 400°F for 8 minutes, then add cheese and cook 2–3 minutes more.
Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispness.
Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini steak
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg