Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks – A Flavorful, Healthy Side Dish

What Are Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks?

If you’re looking for a creative and flavorful way to enjoy zucchini, look no further than Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks . This mouthwatering recipe transforms humble zucchini into hearty “steak”-style slices that are roasted until tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, then finished with a rich garlic-butter glaze and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Perfect for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, these zucchini steaks are an excellent alternative to traditional meat dishes and pair beautifully with grilled proteins, pasta, or a simple green salad. Whether you’re trying to sneak in more veggies or impress guests with a unique side dish, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks step by step, along with variations, serving ideas, and storage tips.

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Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Here’s why this recipe should be your new go-to veggie side:

• Healthy & Nutritious : Low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with vitamins.
• Flavor-Packed : Loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs for bold flavor.
• Easy to Make : Requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Great for Meal Prep : Can be made ahead and reheated easily.
• Family-Friendly : Even picky eaters will enjoy these cheesy zucchini steaks.

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Ingredients Needed (Serves 4)

To make these delicious Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks , gather the following ingredients:

For the Zucchini:

• 3 large zucchinis
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh if available)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks .

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut each zucchini lengthwise into thick ½–¾ inch slices (like steaks).

Place the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Roast the Zucchini

Roast in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes , flipping halfway through, until the zucchini is tender and golden brown on the edges.

Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Topping

While the zucchini is roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese , parsley , thyme , and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the zucchini is done, remove it from the oven and transfer to a serving platter.

Drizzle the warm garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each zucchini steak.

Serve immediately while warm.

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Pro Tips for the Best Results

Want to elevate your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks even further? Try these expert tips:

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese : Melts better and tastes richer than pre-grated.
• Add Lemon Zest : A touch of lemon zest brightens up the flavors.
• Grill Option : For smoky char marks, grill the zucchini steaks instead of roasting.
• Crispier Texture : Broil for the last 2–3 minutes after roasting for extra golden tops.
• Make It Vegan : Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

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Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly customizable! Here are some fun twists to try:

Balsamic Glazed Zucchini Steaks

Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet and tangy contrast.

Mediterranean Style

Top with crumbled feta, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Crispy Parmesan Crust

Mix Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds and press onto zucchini before roasting.

Spicy Garlic Zucchini

Add more garlic and red pepper flakes for extra kick.

Keto-Friendly Option

Top with a dollop of sour cream or avocado crema for added fat and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Grilled Chicken or Steak
• Beside Salmon or Shrimp
• As Part of a Summer BBQ Spread
• Over Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice
• With Garlic Bread and Salad for a Light Meal

Pair with:

• Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc wine
• Lemon-garlic aioli for dipping
• Crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage helps maintain flavor and texture.

Refrigerator Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days .
• Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Instructions:

• Freeze cooled zucchini steaks in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months .
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Note: Zucchini may release moisture when frozen, so best used in soups or casseroles afterward.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Zucchini Steak)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	120–150 kcal
Protein	4–6g
Fat	9–12g
Carbohydrates	4–6g
Fiber	1–2g
Sugar	2–3g
Sodium	250–400mg

Note: Exact values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Yellow Squash Instead of Zucchini?

Yes! Yellow squash works just as well and offers a similar texture and flavor.

How Do I Prevent Mushy Zucchini?

Don’t slice too thin, roast at high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?

Yes! Simply skip any added sugar and use a natural sweetener like monk fruit if desired.

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes! Roast the zucchini steaks and store them refrigerated. Add the garlic butter topping right before serving or reheating.

What Goes Well With Zucchini Steaks?

They pair well with grilled meats, seafood, pasta, rice bowls, or a fresh arugula salad.

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Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a simple yet impressive way to enjoy one of summer’s most abundant vegetables. With their tender texture, rich garlic-butter topping, and savory Parmesan finish, they offer a satisfying and healthy alternative to heavier side dishes.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, entertaining friends, or simply trying to add more vegetables to your diet, this flavorful recipe is a must-try.

So fire up the oven, grab some fresh zucchini, and treat yourself to these irresistibly cheesy, garlicky, restaurant-quality zucchini steaks.

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