If you’re looking for a healthy yet indulgent side dish, these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are your new go-to! Zucchini slices are transformed into tender, flavorful steaks, topped with a cheesy garlic butter sauce that makes them absolutely irresistible. It’s an easy, low-carb dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy and garlicky goodness: The combination of garlic butter and melty cheese takes zucchini to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Quick and easy: With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes, you’ve got a flavorful side dish or snack ready to go.
Low-carb: Zucchini is a great alternative to potatoes or other starchy sides, so this is perfect for anyone looking to cut carbs without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek of the ingredients you’ll need to make these amazing Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks:

2 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Full list of ingredients is below.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by slicing your zucchini into thick rounds, about ½ inch thick. This will give you the “steak” effect. Lay the slices out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Coat the Zucchini

Brush each zucchini round with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat both sides of each slice.

Step 4: Roast the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the zucchini slices in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the zucchini is tender, remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the zucchini slices. Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the zucchini steaks from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Don’t overcook the zucchini: Zucchini has a lot of water content, so you don’t want to overcook it and make it too mushy. Keep an eye on it as it roasts.
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a lot more flavor than garlic powder.
Try different cheeses: Mozzarella is delicious, but you can also try cheddar, gouda, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a different twist.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Add some heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the zucchini before roasting for a spicy kick.
Herb variations: Swap out the Italian seasoning for fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Vegan version: Use dairy-free butter and cheese to make these zucchini steaks vegan-friendly.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks pair wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, or you can serve them alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. They’re also a great side dish for pasta or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover zucchini steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though the cheese may not be as melty.

4 FAQs

Can I use squash instead of zucchini?
Yes! Yellow squash would work well as a substitute for zucchini in this recipe.
Can I make these on the grill?
Absolutely! You can grill the zucchini steaks instead of roasting them for a smoky flavor. Just brush them with the garlic butter and cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes, you can slice the zucchini and prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.
What other toppings can I use for these zucchini steaks?
You can try adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts for texture, or top them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious veggie. With crispy edges, melty cheese, and a delicious garlic butter sauce, they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re serving them as a side or enjoying them on their own, they’re a treat that’s both satisfying and healthy!

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks – A Simple, Flavor-Packed Dish You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

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Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional meat steaks, offering a flavorful combination of tender zucchini, aromatic garlic, and melted cheese. This dish is perfect as a side or a light main course.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course, Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice each zucchini lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick “steaks.”
- Using a sharp knife, score the flesh side of each steak in a crisscross pattern.
- Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- After 15 minutes, pat the zucchini steaks dry with a paper towel to remove the released moisture.
Sear the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Place the zucchini steaks flesh-side down in the skillet and sear for about 3 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the zucchini steaks and remove the skillet from heat.
Prepare the Garlic Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and freshly ground black pepper.
Assemble and Bake:
- Brush the garlic mixture evenly over the flesh side of each zucchini steak.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Using a mix of different cheeses, such as feta or cheddar, can provide a richer taste.