Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Zucchini is an incredibly versatile vegetable that takes on the flavors of any dish beautifully. In this recipe, we’re transforming humble zucchini into something extraordinary with a cheesy, garlicky twist. These “zucchini steaks” are seared to perfection, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, and finished under the broiler to achieve a golden, bubbly crust. Infused with garlic and red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, and garnished with fresh basil, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a delicious side dish or a satisfying vegetarian entrée, these cheesy zucchini steaks are a must-try!

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
  • ¼ tsp (1 g) crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving
  • 4 tbsp (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 oz (½ cup) mozzarella, shredded
  • 1 oz (½ cup) Parmesan, finely shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, torn

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini Steaks

Start by slicing the zucchinis in half lengthwise, creating four “steaks.” Lay them flat on a cutting board, flesh side up. Using a sharp knife, score the flesh of each steak diagonally, about 1/4 inch deep and spaced 1/2 inch apart. Then, rotate the zucchini 90 degrees and score again, creating a crosshatch pattern. This technique allows the zucchini to absorb the seasonings better and cook more evenly.

After scoring, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of kosher salt over the flesh side of each zucchini. The salt will help draw out excess moisture, giving the zucchini a more concentrated flavor and better texture during cooking. Let the salted zucchini sit for about 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Prepare the Garlic Oil

While the zucchini is resting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a rack in the center of the oven.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the 4 cloves of garlic and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture continuously for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter. Remove the skillet from the heat and scrape the garlic oil into a small bowl. Set aside for later.

3. Sear the Zucchini Steaks

After the zucchini has released some moisture, use a paper towel to pat the zucchini dry thoroughly. This step is important for achieving a good sear on the zucchini when frying.

In the same skillet used for the garlic oil, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place two of the zucchini halves, flesh side down, into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom turns a deep golden brown. Transfer the seared zucchini to a baking sheet, flesh side up. Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini halves, adding another tablespoon of olive oil as needed.

4. Brush with Garlic Oil and Bake

Once all the zucchini steaks are seared and arranged on the baking sheet, brush the flesh side generously with the reserved garlic oil. Make sure to get some of the garlic and red pepper flakes on each steak for added flavor.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the zucchini for 8-10 minutes. The zucchini should become tender in the center but still hold its shape. Baking helps soften the zucchini while allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Add the Cheese and Broil

After baking, remove the zucchini from the oven. Sprinkle 2 oz of shredded mozzarella and 1 oz of shredded Parmesan evenly over the tops of the zucchini steaks. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a deliciously gooey and flavorful cheese layer.

Turn on the oven’s broiler to high. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil the zucchini for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. The cheese should melt and turn golden brown, forming a bubbly, crispy crust.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is beautifully browned, remove the zucchini from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. For a final touch, sprinkle the zucchini steaks with fresh torn basil and an additional pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Serve these cheesy garlic zucchini steaks hot, and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The contrast between the tender zucchini, the crispy golden cheese, and the aromatic garlic oil makes this dish a winner. The subtle heat from the red pepper flakes adds just enough spice to keep things interesting, while the fresh basil brings a refreshing herbal note. This recipe is also highly adaptable—feel free to swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère, and add your favorite herbs for a personal twist.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

1. Don’t Skip the Scoring

Scoring the zucchini not only helps the seasonings penetrate but also prevents the zucchini from becoming too watery during cooking. This technique ensures that the zucchini steaks maintain their structure and absorb the flavors from the garlic oil.

2. Use Fresh, High-Quality Cheese

Since cheese is a key element of this dish, using high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for the best results, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how they melt.

3. Keep an Eye on the Broiler

When broiling the cheese, it’s essential to watch the zucchini closely as the cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, but avoid letting it get too dark.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Sugar: 4 g

With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, this cheesy garlic zucchini recipe is a great way to enjoy a vegetable-forward dish while indulging in the comforting flavors of cheese and garlic. Serve it as a side, or make it the star of a vegetarian meal—either way, it’s bound to be a hit!