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Ultimate Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Sticks

A pile of golden brown, crispy baked parmesan zucchini sticks stacked on a white plate.

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Make this easy, healthy vegetable side dish that achieves maximum crunch without frying. These oven-baked parmesan zucchini sticks are perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a satisfying low-carb appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini, ends trimmed
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat the paper with cooking spray.
  2. Cut the zucchini into sticks, about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick. You can leave the skin on.
  3. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the egg in the first dish and lightly beat it. In the second dish, mix the flour with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Working with one zucchini stick at a time, dredge it lightly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  5. Dip the floured stick into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off.
  6. Finally, press the stick firmly into the Parmesan and panko mixture, ensuring it is well coated on all sides. Place the coated zucchini sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Do not let them touch.
  7. Lightly spray the tops of the coated zucchini sticks with cooking spray. This helps them brown and crisp up.
  8. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping the sticks halfway through the cooking time. Continue baking until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove from the oven and serve immediately as a healthy side dish or low carb zucchini appetizer.

Notes

  • To achieve the best crispy baked zucchini, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Use two sheets if necessary to ensure air circulates around each piece.
  • For an even crispier texture, you can lightly pat the zucchini sticks dry with a paper towel before starting the breading process.
  • This recipe works well as a vegetarian baked side, but you can substitute the panko with almond flour for a lower-carb option.

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