Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Short Description

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a savory and satisfying dish that transforms humble zucchini into a flavorful, cheesy delight. By scoring and searing the zucchini, then topping it with a garlic-infused oil and melted mozzarella, this recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, these zucchini steaks are both easy to prepare and impressive to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and melted cheese creates a rich and savory taste.

• Healthy Option: Zucchini is low in calories and high in nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice.

• Versatile Serving: Suitable as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.

• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe accessible for all cooking levels.

• Visually Appealing: The golden-brown cheese and vibrant green zucchini make for an attractive presentation.77recipes.com

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium zucchini

• Kosher salt

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving

• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 2 ounces mozzarella, shredded (about ½ cup)

• 1 ounce Parmesan, finely shredded (about ½ cup)

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, tornFacebookDelish+2Easy Family Recipes+2punchfork.com+2

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create four “steaks.”

3. Score the flesh side of each zucchini half in a crosshatch pattern, about ¼ inch deep.

4. Sprinkle the scored sides with kosher salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture.

5. Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

6. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the chopped garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes.

7. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

8. Place the zucchini halves flesh side down in the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes.

9. Transfer the seared zucchini to a baking sheet, flesh side up.

10. Brush the garlic and oil mixture over the tops of the zucchini.

11. Bake in the preheated oven until the zucchini is tender, about 8–10 minutes.

12. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the zucchini.

13. Switch the oven to broil and return the zucchini to the oven.

14. Broil until the cheese is melted and golden brown, about 2–3 minutes.

15. Garnish with torn fresh basil and additional crushed red pepper flakes before serving.Delish+1Easy Family Recipes+1Hungry Happens+2Easy Family Recipes+2Delish+2

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes77recipes.com+12Southern Living+12Allrecipes+12AllrecipesDelish+899 Easy Recipes+8TikTok+8

Variations

• Herb Variation: Add chopped fresh thyme or oregano to the garlic oil for additional flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

• Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.

• Grilled Version: Grill the zucchini halves instead of searing them in a skillet for a smoky flavor.

• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cheese alternatives to make the dish vegan-friendly.Hungry Happens

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the zucchini may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I prepare the zucchini ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice and score the zucchini in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks?

They pair well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as part of a vegetarian meal.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, yellow squash can be used as a substitute in this recipe.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?

Salting and patting dry the zucchini before cooking helps remove excess moisture, preventing sogginess.

Is it necessary to score the zucchini?

Scoring allows the flavors to penetrate deeper and helps the zucchini cook more evenly, but it’s optional.

Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4-servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

complete recipe schema for Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks, a savory and satisfying vegetarian side dish.

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Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini

• Kosher salt

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (plus more for serving)

• 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 2 oz mozzarella, shredded (about 1/2 cup)

• 1 oz Parmesan, finely shredded (about 1/2 cup)

• 2 tbsp fresh basil, torn (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Zucchini:

  • Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise to create 4 “steaks.”

  • Score the flesh side of each steak 1/4″ deep diagonally at 1/2″ intervals. Rotate 90° and score again to create a crosshatch pattern.

  • Season the scored sides with 1 tsp kosher salt. Let sit for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture.Delish+1Easy Family Recipes+1Easy Family Recipes+1Delish+1

• Make Garlic Oil:

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook garlic and red pepper flakes in 2 tbsp olive oil until fragrant (1–2 minutes).

  • Transfer the garlic oil to a small bowl and set aside.Delish

• Sear the Zucchini:

  • Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels.

  • In the same skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil.

  • Place 2 zucchini halves flesh side down and cook until golden brown (2–3 minutes).

  • Transfer to a baking sheet, flesh side up. Repeat with remaining zucchini and 1 tbsp olive oil.Delish

• Bake and Broil:

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

  • Brush the zucchini steaks with the prepared garlic oil.

  • Bake until tender in the center (8–10 minutes).

  • Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.

  • Broil on high until cheese is melted and browned (2–3 minutes).Delish+5Delish+5punchfork.com+5

• Serve:

  • Transfer zucchini to a serving platter.

  • Garnish with torn basil and additional red pepper flakes, if desired.

Notes

• Scoring the zucchini allows flavors to penetrate and helps achieve a better sear.

• Pre-salting draws out moisture, preventing sogginess.

• For a different flavor profile, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano to the garlic oiL

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking