Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

If you’ve ever thought zucchini was a little too mild for your taste, I’m here to change your mind. Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are about to become your new favorite veggie dish! Imagine thick slices of zucchini, perfectly seasoned with garlic and herbs, then roasted to tender, golden perfection and topped with melty cheese. It’s a side dish that feels indulgent yet light, and trust me, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. If you’re craving something savory and satisfying but want to keep things on the lighter side, these zucchini steaks are a total game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combo of garlicky goodness and melty cheese elevates the mild zucchini, making each bite so flavorful you won’t even miss the meat.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a last-minute side for any meal.
• Light and Healthy: With zucchini being the star of the show, this dish is light, low-carb, and packed with nutrients, so you can indulge without the guilt.
• Customizable: Whether you love a little extra garlic, prefer a different cheese, or want to add some red pepper flakes for heat, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your tastes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even the pickiest eaters will love these cheesy zucchini steaks. They’re so flavorful, everyone—kids included—will want to dig in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks:

For the Zucchini Steaks:

• Zucchini: The base of this dish. You’ll want to slice the zucchini into thick “steaks” that hold up during roasting.
• Olive Oil: To coat the zucchini for that perfect golden-brown finish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the bold, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with zucchini.
• Italian Seasoning: A classic blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural sweetness of the zucchini.

For the Topping:

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The melty cheese that pulls everything together. It’s gooey, creamy, and utterly delicious.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a bit of sharpness and richness to the dish, giving it that extra flavor kick.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the cheese.

(Note: Full ingredient list with measurements can be found in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks on your plate:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will give you the perfect roasting temperature to get your zucchini nice and tender, while still keeping a bit of bite.

2. Prepare the Zucchini:

Slice the zucchini into thick rounds or “steaks” (about ½-inch thick). You want them thick enough to hold their shape when roasted, but not so thick that they won’t cook through.

3. Season the Zucchini:

Place the zucchini steaks on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the slices. Toss gently to coat the zucchini with all the flavors, making sure every slice is well-seasoned.

4. Roast the Zucchini:

Pop the zucchini in the oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and starting to get a golden brown edge. You want the zucchini to soften but still maintain a slight bite.

5. Add the Cheese:

Take the zucchini out of the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over each steak. Return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Once the cheesy zucchini steaks are out of the oven, sprinkle them with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to roast]
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are perfect as a side dish or even as a light main course. Here are some ideas to serve them up:

• With Grilled Meat: These zucchini steaks pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or even fish. The rich cheese and garlic flavor balance out the smoky, savory notes of grilled meats.
• With a Simple Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the cheesy, savory zucchini. Try a simple mixed greens salad or a Mediterranean-style salad with olives and feta.
• Over Quinoa or Rice: If you’re looking to make this a more filling meal, serve the zucchini steaks over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. The grains will soak up any extra olive oil and garlic, making the meal even more satisfying.
• As an Appetizer: These zucchini steaks also make a great appetizer for any gathering. Serve them alongside a dipping sauce like marinara or a creamy ranch for an extra treat.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the zucchini before roasting. It adds a nice spicy kick that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Try Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan work beautifully here, you can also experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, or even feta for a unique twist.
• Prep Ahead: You can slice and season the zucchini earlier in the day and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. This saves time when you’re ready to cook.
• Make It Vegan: For a dairy-free version, swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite plant-based cheeses. Vegan cheese will melt and bubble similarly to regular cheese.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I grill these zucchini steaks instead of roasting them?
A1: Absolutely! Grill the zucchini steaks on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and lightly charred. Top with cheese and continue grilling until the cheese is melted.

Q2: Can I use zucchini ribbons instead of steaks?
A2: Zucchini ribbons will cook much faster, so keep an eye on them in the oven. You can still top them with cheese, but they’ll need less time to cook through.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: You can prep the zucchini and season it ahead of time, but it’s best to roast the zucchini just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
A4: While it’s not ideal for freezing, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q5: What can I serve this with if I’m making it as a main dish?
A5: These cheesy zucchini steaks are filling on their own, but you can serve them with a side of roasted potatoes, grilled chicken, or a quinoa salad to make it a more substantial meal.

Q6: Can I add other veggies?
A6: Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant to the mix. Just make sure to slice them similarly to the zucchini so they cook evenly.

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ve got a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Perfect for a quick weeknight side or an indulgent vegetarian treat, they’re sure to impress every time!

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