Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

If you’ve ever wondered how to take humble zucchini and turn it into an irresistible dish, you’re in for a treat with Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks. These thick zucchini slices are seared to perfection, topped with a garlicky, cheesy crust, and baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a simple yet gourmet recipe that will have you falling in love with zucchini all over again.

Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a low-carb alternative to breadsticks, or a vegetarian entrée that satisfies every craving, this recipe is perfect. Trust me, the combination of garlic, melted cheese, and tender zucchini is pure magic!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Here’s what makes this dish shine:

Bursting with Flavor: Garlic, herbs, and gooey cheese come together to create a taste explosion in every bite.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these zucchini steaks are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: A healthy dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a hit for anyone watching their carbs.
Versatile: Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course—these zucchini steaks are incredibly flexible.

If you think zucchini is bland, this recipe will completely change your mind. Let’s get started!

What Do Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Taste Like?

These zucchini steaks are a perfect combination of textures and flavors:

Tender on the Inside: The zucchini becomes soft and succulent after roasting.
Crispy Edges: Searing the zucchini gives it a slightly caramelized edge that’s irresistible.
Savory and Cheesy: The garlicky, cheesy topping melts into a golden crust that’s rich and flavorful.

The flavors are so indulgent, you’ll forget you’re eating a vegetable!

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Zucchini (2 large, cut into thick slices or “steaks”)
Olive oil (2 tablespoons, for searing)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, freshly grated)
Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded)

Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional: Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need:

A sharp knife and cutting board (to slice the zucchini evenly).
A non-stick skillet (for searing the zucchini).
A baking sheet (for broiling the cheesy topping).
A mixing bowl (to combine the cheese and garlic topping).

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is!

Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a kick of heat.
Swap the Cheese: Try Gruyère, cheddar, or even vegan cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add Protein: Top the zucchini steaks with cooked crumbled bacon or shredded chicken before adding the cheese for a heartier dish.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a different twist on the flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making these delicious zucchini steaks:

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Wash the zucchini and trim the ends.
Slice each zucchini lengthwise into ½-inch-thick steaks. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Zucchini

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the zucchini steaks with salt and pepper.
Place the zucchini in the skillet in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and transfer to a baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Garlic Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to broil.
Spoon the cheesy garlic mixture evenly over the seared zucchini steaks.
Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the finished zucchini steaks with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

These zucchini steaks are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or a hearty pasta dish.
Low-Carb Entrée: Enjoy them on their own with a simple green salad for a light, satisfying meal.
Appetizer: Cut the zucchini steaks into smaller portions and serve them as finger food with marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Steaks

Don’t Overcook: Zucchini cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid soggy steaks. You want them tender, not mushy!
Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a stronger flavor compared to the pre-packaged kind.
Broil Carefully: Broilers can vary in intensity, so keep a close watch to prevent the cheese from burning.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigerate: Store the zucchini steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or pop them in an air fryer to revive their crispiness.
Freeze: These don’t freeze well, as the zucchini can become watery when thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works just as well and adds a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.

What if I don’t have a broiler?

If your oven doesn’t have a broiler, bake the zucchini steaks at 425°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry the zucchini steaks at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, adding the cheese topping during the last 3 minutes.

Conclusion

There you have it—Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks that are as easy to make as they are delicious to eat. This recipe transforms simple zucchini into a crave-worthy dish that’s bursting with cheesy, garlicky goodness. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, a snack, or even the star of the meal, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below or share your photos on Pinterest. And if you’re looking for more veggie-packed recipes, check out my roasted cauliflower steaks or crispy Parmesan asparagus—you won’t be disappointed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

Enjoy these cheesy garlic zucchini steaks with every melty, garlicky bite—they’re the perfect way to make vegetables the star of the show!