A perfect blend of garden-fresh zucchini, aromatic garlic oil, and melted cheese makes these Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks an irresistible dish! Scoring the zucchini allows the flavors to soak deep into every bite, while searing gives them a beautifully golden crust. Topped with a duo of mozzarella and Parmesan, this recipe is a dream for cheese lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a low-carb side dish, or a vegetarian alternative to traditional steak, this dish has you covered. Serve it with a side of marinara, a fresh salad, or on its own for a satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- Aromatics & Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- Cheese & Garnish:
- 2 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (about ½ cup)
- 1 oz Parmesan cheese, finely shredded (about ½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
Directions:
- Prepare the Zucchini: Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create four “steaks.” Score the flesh side in a crosshatch pattern. Generously season with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Garlic Oil: In a skillet over medium heat, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.
- Sear the Zucchini: Pat zucchini dry. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place zucchini flesh-side down and sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a baking sheet. Repeat with remaining zucchini.
- Bake: Brush the zucchini steaks with garlic oil, ensuring the scored areas are well coated. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Broil with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven, top with fresh basil, and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks – A Delicious, Low-Carb Delight
Zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables in the kitchen. Whether grilled, sautéed, roasted, or baked, it absorbs flavors beautifully while retaining a slight crunch. When transformed into Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks, it becomes an impressive, satisfying dish that can stand alone as a main course or complement other dishes as a side.
This recipe is perfect for those who want a low-carb, vegetarian-friendly, and utterly delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of golden seared zucchini, aromatic garlic oil, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent.
Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try, the benefits of zucchini, some variations you can try, and the best ways to serve and store it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Meat Alternative – While traditional “steaks” bring to mind thick, meaty cuts, these zucchini steaks offer a hearty, juicy, and flavorful alternative for those looking to reduce meat consumption or enjoy a vegetarian meal.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Full of Bold Flavors – The garlic-infused olive oil, a hint of red pepper flakes, and a cheesy topping make every bite irresistible.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – With just 6g of carbs per serving, this recipe is perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Naturally Gluten-Free – Since there are no grains or flour involved, this dish is a fantastic gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
Health Benefits of Zucchini
Zucchini isn’t just a delicious and versatile vegetable; it also comes with numerous health benefits:
✅ Low in Calories – Zucchini is made up of 95% water, making it an incredibly low-calorie food while still being filling. A single serving has only 20-30 calories, depending on preparation.
✅ Packed with Vitamins & Minerals – This vegetable is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, which support immune function, heart health, and digestion.
✅ Supports Digestive Health – The fiber content in zucchini aids digestion and can help with gut health by promoting healthy bowel movements and preventing constipation.
✅ Rich in Antioxidants – Lutein and zeaxanthin, found in zucchini, help protect your eyes from oxidative damage and promote long-term eye health.
✅ A Great Low-Carb Alternative – If you’re on a keto or low-carb diet, zucchini can replace starchy vegetables like potatoes or even be used as a pasta substitute.
Tips for Making the Best Zucchini Steaks
🔹 Choose the Right Zucchini – Pick medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free from bruises. Larger zucchinis tend to be watery and have more seeds, which can affect texture.
🔹 Don’t Skip the Scoring Step – Scoring the flesh in a crosshatch pattern helps the seasonings penetrate deeper, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.
🔹 Let the Zucchini Rest – Sprinkling salt on the scored zucchini and letting it rest for about 15 minutes removes excess moisture, leading to a better sear and richer texture.
🔹 Sear at High Heat – Medium-high heat ensures that the zucchini gets a beautiful golden-brown crust without becoming too mushy.
🔹 Use Fresh Garlic Instead of Powder – Freshly minced garlic infuses the oil and enhances the dish’s flavor much better than powdered garlic.
🔹 Watch the Cheese While Broiling – The cheese should be golden brown and bubbly but not burnt. Broil for just 2-3 minutes and keep an eye on it!
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes. Here are some fun variations:
🍅 Italian-Inspired Zucchini Steaks – Add a layer of marinara sauce before adding the cheese for an Italian twist. You can also sprinkle Italian seasoning for extra depth of flavor.
🧀 Extra Cheesy Version – Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, cheddar, or gouda for a more complex cheesy flavor.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving.
🥓 Bacon Lovers’ Edition – Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the cheese before broiling for an added crunch and smoky flavor.
🥑 Keto-Friendly Twist – Serve these zucchini steaks with a side of guacamole or a dollop of sour cream for a satisfying, creamy contrast.
🍄 Mushroom Lover’s Delight – Sauté some mushrooms with garlic and butter and spoon them over the zucchini before adding the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks can be served in many ways, whether as a main dish or a side:
🥗 As a Main Dish – Serve with a fresh green salad and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. A side of quinoa or roasted chickpeas makes it a well-rounded meal.
🥩 As a Side Dish – Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a protein-packed dinner.
🍝 With Pasta – Toss these zucchini steaks with pasta and pesto for a light yet comforting meal.
🍞 With Garlic Bread – A side of crusty garlic bread or focaccia perfectly complements the cheesy, garlicky flavors.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Although these zucchini steaks are best enjoyed fresh, they can still be stored for later:
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat – Warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep the texture intact. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them too soft.
- Freeze (Not Recommended) – Due to zucchini’s high water content, freezing may result in a mushy texture when reheated.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks prove that simple ingredients can create incredible flavors. With golden-browned zucchini, fragrant garlic oil, and a gooey, cheesy topping, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, following a low-carb diet, or just looking for a new way to enjoy zucchini, this recipe is a must-try. Its bold flavors, crispy edges, and cheesy goodness make it a hit at any dinner table.