Why Make This Recipe
Zucchini Parmesan is a delicious way to enjoy veggies and is perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting side dish. The crispy breaded zucchini paired with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. It’s also a great way to use up zucchini from your garden or the farmer’s market!
How to Make Zucchini Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2-3 egg whites (beaten until frothy)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 20 oz. vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3/4 cup flour
- 3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Slice the zucchini into rounds and wash and dry the slices.
- Set up a breading station with one bowl of flour, one bowl with frothy egg whites, and one bowl with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each zucchini slice in the flour, then dip it in the egg whites, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the breaded zucchini slices until golden brown. Drain them on paper towels.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a casserole dish, spread some marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried zucchini slices, then half of the marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining fried zucchini, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Zucchini Parmesan
Zucchini Parmesan is best served warm. You can serve it as a main dish paired with a side salad or garlic bread. It also works well as a side to grilled meats or pasta dishes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch.
How to Store Zucchini Parmesan
To store leftover Zucchini Parmesan, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Zucchini Parmesan
- Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Press the zucchini slices into the breadcrumbs for a better coating.
- If you want it extra cheesy, feel free to add more mozzarella or try different cheeses like provolone or fontina.
Variation
You can add cooked ground meat, like sausage or turkey, to the layers for a heartier dish. Another option is to mix herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: It is best to use fresh zucchini for this recipe. Frozen zucchini can become too watery when cooked.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Yes! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Keep it covered in the fridge if you make it in advance.
Zucchini Parmesan
Ingredients
Zucchini and Coating
- 2 medium zucchini Sliced into rounds
- 2-3 large egg whites Beaten until frothy
- 3/4 cup flour
- 3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese Shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese Grated
Frying
- 20 oz. vegetable oil For frying
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the zucchini into rounds and wash and dry the slices.
- Set up a breading station with one bowl of flour, one bowl with frothy egg whites, and one bowl with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each zucchini slice in the flour, then dip it in the egg whites, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the breaded zucchini slices until golden brown. Drain them on paper towels.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a casserole dish, spread some marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the fried zucchini slices, then half of the marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining fried zucchini, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.