The Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe for Dinner Magic

Zesty culinary adventures with these mouthwatering cheesy garlic zucchini steaks promise an explosion of flavor.

Summer gardens overflow with fresh produce begging to become something spectacular.

Thick-cut vegetable slices transform into a sensational main course that impresses even dedicated meat lovers.

Mediterranean-inspired seasonings dance across each golden-edged vegetable plank, creating irresistible caramelized edges.

Cheese melts seductively over herbaceous surfaces, adding richness and depth to every bite.

Simple ingredients combine into something extraordinary that makes vegetable skeptics pause and reconsider their stance.

You can absolutely nail this recipe with minimal cooking skills and maximum deliciousness.

Prepare to amaze yourself and anyone lucky enough to join your dinner table.

What’s Cheesy and Simple About Garlic Zucchini Steaks

• Quick Veggie Transformation: Turn ordinary zucchini into a mouthwatering side dish that transforms this humble vegetable into a restaurant-worthy experience.
• Flavor-Packed Nutrition: Enjoy a low-carb, nutrient-dense dish bursting with garlic, herbs, and melted cheese that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Serve as a stunning side dish for family dinners, summer barbecues, or as a delicious vegetarian option that appeals to both kids and adults.

Garlic Zucchini Steaks Ingredients

• Zucchini: Fresh vegetable base of the recipe, provides hearty texture and light flavor profile. Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini without soft spots or blemishes.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Rich flavor enhancers with smooth, complementary fat base. Use unsalted butter for better salt control.
• Garlic: Adds robust, aromatic flavor. Fresh minced garlic recommended for best taste.
• Italian Seasoning: Herb blend providing depth and traditional Mediterranean taste. Pre-mixed or homemade blend works well.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor boosters for balanced seasoning. Freshly ground black pepper preferred.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces mild heat and subtle spiciness. Adjust quantity based on heat preference.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty, golden cheese layer for rich, savory finish. Fresh, high-quality cheeses recommended for best melting properties.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb for color and light herbal note. Finely chopped just before serving.

Garlic Zucchini Steaks Cheesy Cook Steps

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Turn your oven to 400°F or fire up the grill to medium-high heat.

Grab a baking sheet and cover it with parchment paper, or lightly grease your grill pan for a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Transform Zucchini into Delicious Steaks

Slice zucchini into thick, hearty pieces and lay them out on your prepared surface.

• Melted butter
• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Generously brush this magical mixture over each zucchini steak, ensuring every inch gets coated with goodness.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

For oven method: Slide the zucchini into the heated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until they’re tender and beautiful.

For grill method: Place zucchini steaks on the grill and cook 3-4 minutes per side, creating those gorgeous char marks that scream deliciousness.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the zucchini.

Pop under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbly masterpiece.

Step 5: Final Flourish

Shower the zucchini steaks with freshly chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the mouthwatering result of your culinary adventure.

Zucchini Steak Tips with Garlic Cheese

• Cut zucchini into uniform 1/2-inch thick steaks to ensure consistent cooking and prevent burning.
• Pat zucchini dry with paper towels before seasoning to prevent excess water and achieve crispy edges.
• Modify red pepper flakes quantity to match your heat preference, from mild to extra spicy.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and more attractive golden-brown surface.
• Swap high-carb cheeses with nutritional yeast for a healthier, dairy-free version that maintains great flavor.

Zucchini Steaks That Reheat With Ease

• Store leftover zucchini steaks in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Warm zucchini steaks at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and maintain cheese's melty texture.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to avoid overcooking. Zucchini can become watery and lose its crisp texture if heated too long.
• Fresh zucchini contains high water content, so freezing will significantly change the texture and quality of the dish.

Tasty Sides for Garlic Zucchini Steaks

• Pair Zesty Mediterranean White Wine: Crisp Assyrtiko from Greece complements the garlic and cheese with bright, mineral notes that cut through the richness.
• Create Protein Harmony: Grilled chicken breast or seared salmon perfectly balance the zucchini's light texture, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
• Elevate with Herb-Infused Accompaniment: Fresh basil pesto or chimichurri sauce adds vibrant herbal layers that enhance the dish's garlicky, cheesy profile.
• Match with Rustic Side: Crusty sourdough bread becomes an ideal partner, allowing diners to soak up the delicious melted cheese and herb-infused oils.

Cheesy Zucchini Steaks You Can Change Up

• Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil, use vegan mozzarella and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Swap Italian seasoning for herb blend to enhance plant-based flavor.
• Keto-Friendly Option: Use extra virgin olive oil, increase cheese quantity, add crushed pork rinds for crispy topping. Reduce red pepper flakes for milder heat.
• Low-Sodium Adaptation: Eliminate added salt, use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Select low-sodium cheese varieties to maintain flavor without excess sodium.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Incorporate fresh oregano, crumbled feta cheese, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Add sun-dried tomato pieces for Mediterranean-inspired profile.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone. Choose cheeses that melt well for the best results.

• How thick should I slice the zucchini steaks?

Cut zucchini into 1/2-inch thick slices. This thickness ensures they cook evenly and maintain a nice texture without becoming too mushy or falling apart.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This zucchini steak recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the cheese you use is made with vegetarian rennet if you’re strict about your vegetarian diet.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the zucchini steaks in advance and reheat them in the oven. However, for optimal taste and texture, cook and serve immediately after adding the cheese.

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory cheesy garlic zucchini steaks deliver garden-fresh flavors with Mediterranean charm. Crisp zucchini slices glazed with garlic and melted cheese promise a delightful side dish that transports you straight to summer’s delicious simplicity.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 large zucchini, cut into thick steaks (lengthwise or rounds)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Oils and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetable surface by trimming and slicing zucchini lengthwise into thick, uniform planks, ensuring each piece maintains structural integrity for grilling or roasting.
2. Create a robust flavor infusion by whisking together melted butter, fragrant olive oil, finely minced garlic, aromatic Italian seasoning, crisp salt, cracked black pepper, and fiery red pepper flakes into a harmonious marinade.
3. Meticulously coat each zucchini steak with the prepared herb-laden mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage to maximize flavor penetration.
4. For oven method, arrange seasoned zucchini on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F, allowing the vegetable to soften and caramelize for approximately 12-15 minutes.
5. Alternatively, for grilling, position zucchini steaks on a preheated medium-high grate, creating beautiful crosshatch marks by rotating halfway through cooking, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Transform the zucchini into a decadent dish by generously sprinkling a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the surface.
7. Activate the broiler, positioning the zucchini close to the heat source and monitoring carefully until the cheese melts into a golden, effervescent crust.
8. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and herbaceous brightness.
9. Serve immediately while the zucchini remains warm and the cheese maintains its luxurious, molten texture.

Notes

• Slice zucchini evenly to ensure uniform cooking and attractive presentation.
• Pat zucchini dry before seasoning to help achieve crispy edges and prevent excess moisture.
• Adjust cheese quantities for lighter or richer versions depending on dietary preferences.
• Experiment with alternative cheese options like goat cheese or dairy-free alternatives for specialized diets.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 211
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 457 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 27 mg