Name: Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large zucchinis (sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick steaks); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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If you’re hunting for a speedy, flavor-packed way to upgrade your veggie game, look no further than Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks. This dish dazzles you with its melty, golden cheese, bold garlic aroma, and perfectly tender zucchini slices. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, effortless enough for weeknights, and fancy enough for guests—plus, it transforms simple zucchini into a star. Let’s get ready to let these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks steal the show at your next meal!

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to irresistible Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks lies in a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient has a special role, whether it’s adding bite, creaminess, color, or that crave-worthy savory finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a single one:

Zucchinis: Go for two large ones, sliced thick for steak-like presence and hearty texture.
Olive oil: Coats the zucchini for a luscious roast and helps the seasonings cling.
Garlic: Four cloves, minced, to punch up the aromatic, comforting flavor we all love.
Salt: Just the right touch elevates flavors and brings out zucchini’s natural sweetness.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and balance to the richness of the cheese.
Dried Italian seasoning: A classic blend infuses every bite with herby depth.
Mozzarella cheese: Its gooey melt makes the topping irresistibly stretchy and creamy.
Parmesan cheese: Provides salty, nutty notes and those essential golden edges.
Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled to brighten everything up just before serving.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start things off by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—not just for easy cleanup, but to ensure the zucchini steaks don’t stick. This small step gives you maximum golden edges with zero hassle.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

Take two large zucchinis and, using a sharp knife, slice them lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick steaks. That thickness gives you a nice hearty bite and ensures they’ll hold their shape in the oven.

Step 3: Whip Up the Garlic Oil Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. This fragrant blend gets brushed generously all over the zucchini steaks, coating them with savory, garlicky flavor that will seep in as they bake.

Step 4: Roast the Zucchini

Arrange the zucchini steaks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Slide the tray into the oven and roast for 15 minutes. This helps the slices become just tender and allows the flavors to meld into the zucchini’s flesh.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Remove the tray carefully and immediately sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over every steak. Don’t be shy—the cheese is what transforms the dish into Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks!

Step 6: Melt and Finish

Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt, bubble, and pick up those delicious golden spots. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Pull the zucchini steaks from the oven and, while they’re still hot, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. The herbs add a final pop of color and freshness that makes each bite even better.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, don’t hesitate to shower the Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks with extra chopped parsley or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat. A light squeeze of lemon juice over the top brightens the cheese and makes the flavors really sing.

Side Dishes

These zucchini steaks pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted potatoes, or a light quinoa pilaf. For a heartier dinner, serve alongside grilled chicken, baked fish, or a plant-based protein for a totally satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks in a shingled row across a large platter for a party-worthy presentation. Or, stack them up with layers of fresh tomato slices and basil leaves for a fresh take on a zucchini caprese. They also make an irresistible vegetarian main if you double the recipe and serve with crusty bread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks (lucky you!), simply transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days; their flavors deepen as they rest, making leftovers a real treat.

Freezing

While zucchini has a high water content, you can freeze these steaks if needed. Place them between layers of parchment in a freezer-safe container. Just note, the texture might be a bit softer when thawed, but the savory cheesy flavor will still shine through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the zucchini steaks on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until the cheese gets bubbly again, about 8 to 10 minutes. This method helps them regain that irresistible texture and avoids any sogginess from microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works just as well in this recipe. The flavor is very similar, and it brings a lovely pop of color to your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks.

What cheese substitutions can I make?

You can swap out mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or cheddar, and substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different cheesy edge. Just use what you love or have on hand!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are naturally gluten-free, provided you double-check the seasonings for hidden additives. No breadcrumbs or flour needed—just pure veggie and cheese goodness.

How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?

Slice the zucchini thick enough, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and don’t overbake. Those steps will help your zucchini steaks stay perfectly fork-tender, not mushy.

Can I grill Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks instead of baking them?

Definitely! Grilling adds delicious smoky notes. Just brush the zucchini with the garlic oil, grill over medium heat, then add the cheese and let it melt under a grill lid or tented foil for the final touch.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to taste just how easy yet unbelievably delicious Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks turn out. Whether you’re serving them as a family side or letting them shine as the plant-forward star, this recipe will find its way onto your go-to list. Give it a try soon—you’ll be surprised how quickly it disappears from the dinner table!

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe

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4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that makes a perfect side or main course. Tender zucchini slices roasted with garlic and topped with a gooey cheese blend create a delicious low-carb option for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini Steaks:

2 large zucchinis (sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick steaks)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Cheese Topping:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare zucchini: Arrange the zucchini steaks on the baking sheet.
Mix seasoning: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Brush the mixture evenly over the zucchini slices.
Roast zucchini: Roast in the oven for 15 minutes until slightly tender.
Add cheese: Remove from the oven and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the zucchini steaks.
Bake: Return to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.