Crunchy exterior and tender on the inside, these Baked Zucchini Fries are a great alternative to greasy french fries. Since these fries are baked and not fried, you and your family can enjoy these guilt free!
Very simple to make, these Panko and Parmesan Cheese crusted zucchini sticks will become a go-to recipe.
This is a great way to introduce your kids to an amazing vegetable.
Serve this with your favorite dipping sauces – we use ketchup, honey mustard, marinara, or chipotle mayo!
This also pairs really well with Turkey Burgers and Chicken Wraps.
Why This Recipe Works?
- A Great Vegetarian Appetizer.
- Crispy and Crunchy, the perfect texture for these Zucchini Fries.
- Easy to make.
- Kids friendly.
- Easily available Ingredients.
- Perfect when hosting people over, goes well with many dips!
- A great way to introduce your kids to Zucchini.
- One of the best ways to use up any excess Summer Squash.
- The Best Baked Zucchini Fries ever!!
Ingredients
This recipe uses super easy ingredients that can be purchased from a local store if they are not already in your pantry. Read the Recipe Card for the measurements.
- Zucchini – is the star ingredient of this recipe. Zucchini is considered a superfood because of its high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – We prefer Panko for the extra crunch it gives to these veggie fries, but you can also use regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have Panko in your pantry.
- Parmesan Cheese – Provides a rich and tangy flavor profile, while also adding to the crunchy texture.
- Seasonings – To add to the flavor, we use a combination of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. To really give these fries a little kick, we also use some cayenne pepper – our kids love a spicy kick but you can omit this to make it even more kid friendly.
- Flour – For food that has moisture in it, flour is very important for the dredging process, as it provides a surface for the eggs to bind to. We use all-purpose flour but you can also use whole wheat flour to make it a bit healthier.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent by helping the Panko/Parm mixture stick to the Zucchini that has already been dipped in flour.
What to Serve With Baked Crispy Zucchini Fries:
While these fries are amazing by themselves, they are the perfect side dish for:
How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries:
Step 1: Prep It
Space two oven racks evenly in the bottom half of the oven and preheat to 425 degrees F. Line two baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
Step 2: Assembly Line
Set up your dredging station in an assembly line:
In a shallow bowl or plate add the flour. Then, in another plate add 2 eggs and whisk to break up.
Finally, in a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning and cayenne pepper; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Cut It
Cut zucchini in half vertically and horizontally. Then, cut into 1/2 inch thick sticks.
Step 4: Dredge It
Working in batches, first dredge the zucchini in flour, then dip into the eggs, next dredge in panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat.
Step 5: Bake It
Place breaded zucchini onto prepared baking sheets and spread into a single, even layer, leaving space around each piece; this will require using two baking sheets. Bake in the preheat 425 degrees F oven for 10 minutes. Then, swap and rotate the pans for even baking. Continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until fries are golden brown.
Step 6:
Garnish with parsley and serve with ketchup, honey mustard, marinara or chipotle mayo dipping sauce.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Ingredients
- 3 zucchini, cut into strips
- 3/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Space two oven racks evenly in the bottom half of the oven and preheat to 425 degrees F. Line two baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
- In a shallow bowl or plate add the flour. Then, in another plate add 2 eggs and whisk to break up. Finally, in a third bowl, combine the panko, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning and cayenne pepper; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside.
- Cut zucchini in half vertically and horizontally. Then, cut into 1/2 inch thick sticks.
- Working in batches, first dredge the zucchini in flour, then dip into the eggs, next dredge in the panko mixture, pressing to coat.
- Place breaded zucchini onto prepared baking sheets and spread into a single, even layer, leaving space around each piece; this will require using two baking sheets. Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes. Then, swap and rotate the pans for even baking. Continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until fries are golden brown.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.