If you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s crispy, crave-worthy, and just a tad bit wholesome, look no further than these Baked Zucchini Fries! Golden on the outside, meltingly tender on the inside, and bursting with fresh, herby flavor, these fries make it easy to fall in love with vegetables. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a weeknight appetizer, a game day crowd-pleaser, or a healthy side dish, you’ll find these oven-baked fries hit all the right notes—no deep frying required.

Baked Zucchini Fries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Baked Zucchini Fries plays its part, from creating the perfect crunch to boosting flavor. The list is delightfully short, so promise me you’ll pick up the best zucchini you can find—your future self will thank you!

Zucchini: The star of the show! Choose firm, vibrant zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
Eggs: They help the crispy coating stick to your zucchini fries and add a little richness.
Panko breadcrumbs: These create that irresistible, super-crunchy bite everyone loves.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a salty, nutty depth and helps with browning.
Garlic powder: A savory punch that wakes up the flavor of the zucchini fries.
Italian seasoning: Gives these fries a herby lift—think basil, oregano, and thyme.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer to perfection.
Olive oil spray: Ensures even browning and makes those panko crumbs deliciously crisp.

How to Make Baked Zucchini Fries

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Wash your zucchini thoroughly and trim off the ends. Slice each zucchini in half, then cut into long, fry-shaped sticks—about 1/2-inch thick. Pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick beautifully and keeps your Baked Zucchini Fries extra crispy instead of soggy.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the panko, grated parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This quick setup keeps the process mess-free and ensures every fry is evenly coated with that golden, flavorful crust.

Step 3: Bread the Zucchini Fries

Start by dipping each zucchini stick into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Next, dredge the stick in the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. Lay the breaded fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they’ll crisp up evenly in the oven. Repeat until all zucchini sticks are coated.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Lightly spritz your arranged fries with olive oil spray to encourage maximum crispiness. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. When done, your Baked Zucchini Fries should be golden, shatteringly crisp, and tender inside—go ahead, sneak one straight off the tray (chef’s privilege!).

How to Serve Baked Zucchini Fries

Garnishes

Try showering your hot fries with a little extra parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil, or a quick twist of cracked black pepper. Even a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavors and take these Baked Zucchini Fries from tasty to totally irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your zucchini fries with juicy grilled chicken, a hearty veggie burger, or even your favorite main course. They play well with everything but taste especially fabulous alongside a big salad or a homemade tomato-basil dipping sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Load the fries into paper cones for party-perfect finger food, scatter them atop a platter with a couple of fun dipping sauces, or tuck them into a pita wrap with greens and a dollop of tzatziki. Baked Zucchini Fries are as versatile as they are delicious—let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (no guarantees!), let your fries cool completely before moving them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, though a quick reheat will help refresh their crispy exterior.

Freezing

For longer storage, arrange cooled fries on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to a month. This way, you can have Baked Zucchini Fries at a moment’s notice whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch, reheat the fries in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes or pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crisp again. Microwaving works in a pinch but won’t deliver quite the same crispy magic.

FAQs

Can I make these Baked Zucchini Fries gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free brand, and double-check that your seasonings and parmesan are safe for your needs.

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

Nope! The zucchini’s skin softens as it bakes and adds a subtle pop of color. Plus, it contains extra nutrients.

What sauces go well with Baked Zucchini Fries?

Marinara is a classic, but you can also serve them with ranch, chipotle aioli, sriracha mayo, or even a cool yogurt dip. It’s fun to offer a few and let people pick their favorites!

Why are my fries coming out soggy?

Excess moisture is usually the culprit. Be sure to pat your zucchini strips very dry before breading, and always give them room to bake in a single layer without crowding the tray.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes! Yellow squash works just as beautifully in this recipe, giving you a slightly different but equally tasty twist on classic Baked Zucchini Fries.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Baked Zucchini Fries! Whether you’re a zucchini skeptic or already a devoted fan, this recipe is bound to win you over with its crispy edges, tender centers, and downright snackable allure. Roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and dive in—you’re going to love every bite!

Baked Zucchini Fries Recipe