Name: Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds zucchini; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Okay, friends, let me tell you about the most unexpectedly delicious thing I’ve made in ages: Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks. Seriously, don’t let the “zucchini” part fool you. My kids, who usually turn their noses up at anything green, devoured these! Think of it like a super-flavorful, cheesy breadstick, but instead of dough, it’s a juicy slice of zucchini. It’s honestly just as satisfying as garlic bread (maybe even more so!), and it’s a brilliant way to use up all that summer zucchini. I stumbled upon this recipe when I was trying to figure out what to make for a quick side dish one night and let me tell you, it has quickly become a family favorite. It’s the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent!

What is Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steak?

So, what *are* these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks? Well, imagine thick slices of zucchini, seasoned to perfection with garlic, herbs, and then generously smothered in a blanket of melted cheese. Think of it as a veggie-loaded pizza on a zucchini crust. It’s essentially taking a simple vegetable and elevating it to something truly special. The name “steaks” comes from the way you slice the zucchini – thick and round, like little steaks. It’s a fun, approachable way to get your veggies in, and the cheesy, garlicky topping makes it utterly irresistible. Honestly, you won’t even realize you’re eating zucchini!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin? There are SO many reasons why you’ll fall head-over-heels for these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks.

First and foremost: the flavor. The combination of the slightly sweet zucchini, the pungent garlic, the savory herbs, and that glorious melted cheese is just… *chef’s kiss*. I always add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, and it takes it to the next level.

Secondly, the simplicity. This is one of those recipes that comes together in minutes. Seriously, from prep to plate, you’re looking at maybe 20 minutes tops. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.

Thirdly, it’s surprisingly cost-effective. Zucchini is usually pretty inexpensive, especially during the summer months when it’s in season. And you probably already have most of the other ingredients – garlic, herbs, cheese – in your pantry and fridge.

Finally, What is the versatility of! You can serve these zucchini steaks as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a light lunch. I’ve even chopped them up and tossed them into pasta. They’re also great for customizing. You can add different cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. What I love most about this is that it’s a fantastic way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. It is also a nice alternative to cheesy asparagus or cheesy cauliflower.

How do I make Cheesy Zucchini Steaks?

Quick Overview

Making these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks is unbelievably easy. Basically, you slice the zucchini, brush it with garlic-herb butter, top it with cheese, and bake it until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it comes together and how easily you can adapt it to your own preferences. It’s foolproof, even for beginner cooks!

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Steaks: For
* 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds. Try to find zucchini that are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.

For the Garlic-Herb Butter:
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted. I always use good quality butter for the best flavor.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly sliced garlic is essential for that punchy garlic flavor.
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped. Is fresh parsley better than dried?
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano adds a lovely earthy flavor.
* ¼ teaspoon salt. Salt enhances all the flavors.
* 14 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground pepper is my preference.

For the Cheesy Topping: What is
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella is a classic, but you can use any cheese you like.
* 14 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Parmean adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is a great addition.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do you clean zucchini?

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic-Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside. What is the magic of this mixture?

Step 4: Brush the Zucchini

How do you brush zucchini slices with garlic butter? What is the flavor of a banana?

Step 5: Add the Cheese

In a separate bowl, combine the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini slices. Don’t be shy – pile it on!

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary.

Step 7: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let the zucchini steaks cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth. Sprinkle with extra parsley or red pepper flakes, if desired. Enjoy!

What to Serve It With

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of dishes.

As a Side Dish: They’re fantastic alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also complement pasta dishes beautifully. I love serving them with a simple lemon-herb roasted chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.

As an Appetizer: What Arrange them on a platter and serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They’re always a hit at parties!

As a light lunch:Serve a few zucchini steaks with side salad for healthy and satisfying lunch. I often pack them in my lunchbox for a quick and easy meal. My family loves them so much that sometimes, we just eat them straight off the baking sheet as a snack. What are some great side dishes to serve with a salad?

What are some tips for perfecting a Zucchini Steak?

How do I make zucchini steaks?Choose the Right Zucchini: Look for zucchini that are firm, smooth, and relatively uniform in size. Avoid zucchini that are too large, as they tend to be watery and seedy.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the zucchini slices are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy zucchini.

Adjust the Garlic to Your Taste: If you’re not a huge fan of garlic, you can reduce the amount or use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.

Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to use any cheese that melts well, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or cheddar. A blend of cheeses is always a good option.

Add Some Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick to the zucchini steaks. You can also use a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Broil for Extra Color: If you want the cheese to be extra bubbly and golden brown, broil the zucchini steaks for a minute or two at the end of baking. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing: Store the leftover zucchini steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the zucchini steaks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may become a bit soggy.

Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing these as the zucchini will become very watery and mushy. They’re best enjoyed fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan butter, garlic, and your favorite vegan mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. There are some great ones available now that melt really well.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can definitely substitute yellow squash for zucchini. The flavor is very similar, so it will work perfectly in this recipe.

My zucchini steaks are watery. What am I doing wrong?

Zucchini can be quite watery. Before baking, try salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out some of the excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions. Just add them to the baking sheet along with the zucchini.

Can I grill these instead of baking them?

Yes, you can grill them! Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the zucchini steaks on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are tender and the cheese is melted. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks! They’re easy, delicious, and a great way to use up that abundance of zucchini. I promise, even the pickiest eaters will love them. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my roasted garlic parmesan broccoli or my cheesy cauliflower bake. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out, and please share any fun variations you try in the comments below!