If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy zucchini, this Easy Baked Zucchini Parmesan recipe is just what you need. With a crispy, cheesy topping and tender zucchini slices, this dish makes a perfect side or light main course. It’s a delightful way to make the most of fresh zucchini, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Steps
- Slice the zucchini into 1/4 inch thick pieces, sprinkle both sides with salt, and sandwich them between paper towels for at least 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat the slices dry before proceeding to the next step.
- Whisk egg whites with garlic powder until frothy. In a separate bowl, combine flour, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to create the breading mixture.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the egg white mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breading. Use a spoon to press the breading onto the zucchini to ensure it sticks well.
- Preheat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F. Fry the zucchini slices in the oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then let them cool on a rack to maintain crispiness.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13 casserole dish, arrange a layer of fried zucchini slices on top, and cover with more marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Continue layering zucchini, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese until all zucchini slices are used. Stack them neatly or overlap as needed.
- Bake the assembled casserole in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Serve warm and enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2-3 egg whites, beaten until foamy
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 20 oz. vegetable oil, for frying
- ¾ cup flour
- ¾ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
FAQ
- Should I salt zucchini before cooking?
- Yes, it’s recommended to salt zucchini before cooking because they are 95% water. Salting helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring a firmer texture. Let the zucchini sit for at least 30 minutes after salting, or ideally up to 1.5 hours, to extract maximum moisture.
- Do I need to peel zucchini before making Zucchini Parmesan?
- No, peeling is not necessary unless the zucchini are very large, as the skins might be tough or bitter. Ideally, use zucchinis that are around 6 inches long and slice them into 1/4 inch slices for the best texture.
- Can I bake or air fry the zucchini instead of frying?
- Yes, you can either bake or air fry the zucchini. To bake, arrange them on a greased baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes. For air frying, spray them lightly and cook at 375°F for 8 minutes until crispy and golden.
- What is the best way to keep the zucchini crispy?
- After frying, transfer the zucchini to a cooling rack to maintain crispness by allowing air to circulate around them. This method works well for baked or air-fried zucchini as well.
- Why use egg whites for breading instead of whole eggs?
- Using egg whites helps the breading adhere to the zucchini without overwhelming it. This method provides a lighter coating, ensuring the zucchini flavor isn’t lost in the breading.
- How long can I store leftover Zucchini Parmesan?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Salt the Zucchini: To avoid a watery consistency, salt both sides of the zucchini slices and let them rest between paper towels for at least 30 minutes to extract moisture. If you have more time, extending this to 1.5 hours can yield even better results.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil reaches 350°F before frying the zucchini. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the breading may fall off. Adjust the heat as needed during cooking to maintain the correct temperature.
- Double Dip if Necessary: If moisture seeps through the breading before frying, give the zucchini slices another dip in the breading mixture to maintain their crispiness.
- Keep Zucchini Crisp: After frying, place the slices on a cooling rack to allow air circulation, which will help keep them crispy. This is important whether you’re frying, baking, or air frying the zucchini.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet – for frying the zucchini.
- Cooling Rack – to keep the fried zucchini crisp.
- Casserole Dish (9 x 13) – for baking the zucchini parmesan.
