Name: Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

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If you’re looking to transform simple garden zucchini into a dish that’s impossibly savory, bubbly, and a little bit addictive, you have to try Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks. This recipe takes thick planks of zucchini, roasts them until golden and caramelized, and then crowns them with molten layers of mozzarella and Parmesan, all kissed by garlic and Italian herbs. It’s quick, effortless, and always dazzling at the table — making it an irresistible new favorite for weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings alike!

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of wholesome ingredients to make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks shine. Each component brings something special — a little crunch, a burst of flavor, a melty cheese moment — and together they create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you’ll want every single one:

Zucchini: Choose medium, firm zucchini for perfect, hearty “steaks” that hold their shape and absorb flavor beautifully.
Olive Oil: Helps the zucchini brown and crisp at the edges while ensuring every bite is silky and rich.
Garlic: Freshly minced for maximum punch; it infuses every layer with that classic, comforting aroma and taste.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that delivers a fragrant, Mediterranean vibe in every mouthful.
Salt: Don’t skimp! It draws out excess moisture and amplifies all the other flavors.
Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite to balance the cheeses.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the topping, guaranteeing oozy, melted goodness with every forkful.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on for a sharp, salty finish that takes the cheesy factor to a whole new level.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped and scattered over the top, it gives a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness right before serving.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Crank your oven up to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for stress-free cleanup. This is one of those steps you don’t want to skip — the hot oven ensures your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks roast up perfectly golden on the edges, while the parchment makes sure nothing sticks or burns.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

Grab your zucchini and trim off the ends, then slice each one lengthwise into thick, generous steaks about half to three-quarters of an inch thick. These sturdy planks will not only hold up to roasting but also provide the perfect canvas for the cheesy topping. If your zucchini are extra large, scoop out any seeds to keep the texture just right.

Step 3: Season and Arrange

Lay your zucchini steaks in a single layer on the baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil — this is what helps them taste luxuriously tender and also enhances browning. Next, sprinkle on the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Every sprinkle means more flavor, so be generous!

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Pop the tray into your preheated oven and roast the zucchini for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re just fork-tender and lightly golden around the edges. You want them soft but not floppy, so keep an eye out for that perfect moment when they look caramelized but still hold their shape.

Step 5: Bring on the Cheese

Pull the tray out and quickly scatter the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the tops of your zucchini steaks. Then, slide them right back into the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. During this time, the cheese bubbles, melts, and turns irresistibly golden. That’s when you know your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are ready for their grand finale!

Step 6: Finishing Touches

As soon as they come out of the oven, shower your zucchini steaks with lots of fresh parsley. This little green flourish brightens up the whole dish, making it look extra inviting and adding a welcome hint of freshness that pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks — it’s that vibrant, herby element that really makes Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks sing. For even more pop, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet-tangy finish. These little touches turn a simple platter into a restaurant-worthy side.

Side Dishes

Serve these cheesy zucchini beauties alongside anything from grilled chicken to juicy steaks or a simple pasta marinara. Their savory richness pairs so well with grilled proteins and crisp salads, but honestly, they’re satisfying enough to stand alone as a light vegetarian main!

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks like a lasagna, alternating with sliced tomatoes between each layer for a show-stopping starter. Or, arrange them in a spiral on a platter, drizzle with pesto, and let guests serve themselves — it turns your side dish into an irresistible centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got extras (lucky you!), let the zucchini steaks cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Tucked in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days. The cheesy topping holds up surprisingly well, so leftovers are just as craveable the next day!

Freezing

While zucchini can become a touch watery after freezing, you can freeze Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks for up to one month. Layer them between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Expect a softer texture, but all the garlicky, cheesy flavor stays put.

Reheating

Warm your zucchini steaks in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. A toaster oven also works beautifully for a quick reheat. Avoid the microwave if you can: it tends to make them soggy, and you want those edges to stay a little crisp.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, so it works beautifully in place of zucchini. Just slice it the same way and follow the recipe steps as usual. Your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks will be just as delicious, with a slightly different color twist.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No problem at all. Use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or sprinkle whatever Mediterranean-style herbs you have on hand. The key is to infuse the zucchini with that classic herbal fragrance that pairs perfectly with cheese and garlic.

Can I make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks dairy-free?

Definitely! Swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite plant-based cheese substitutes. Many melt beautifully and carry all the same savory notes, making this recipe an easy win for dairy-free eaters.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are naturally gluten-free as written, since there’s no flour or breadcrumbs involved. Just double-check your cheeses to make sure they’re certified gluten-free if you’re highly sensitive.

Can I grill the zucchini instead of roasting?

You sure can! Grill the zucchini steaks over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, then top with the cheese and close the lid until it bubbles and melts. The grill adds a subtle smokiness that makes the Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks even more irresistible.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about pulling a tray of bubbling, golden Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks from the oven and sharing them with friends or family. Whether you serve them as a side dish or savor them all on their own, I hope you give this recipe a try — I have a feeling it’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe

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4.6 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a delicious and easy vegetarian side dish or light main. Roasted zucchini topped with a flavorful blend of garlic, Italian seasoning, and two types of cheese, these zucchini steaks are a flavorful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Steaks:

4 medium zucchini
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Topping:

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice and season: Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thick steaks, arrange on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Roast: Roast for 12 to 15 minutes until just tender.
Add cheese: Sprinkle the zucchini with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake for another 5 to 7 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot as a side dish or light main.

Notes

For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Zucchini steaks pair well with grilled meats or pasta.
If using very large zucchini, scoop out some seeds for even cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian
Method: Baking, Roasting
Cuisine: Mediterranean