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Golden Parmesan-Panko Zucchini Fries

Crispy, cheesy zucchini fries coated in a golden Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust—an easy and nostalgic snack or side dish ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Fries
  • 2 medium zucchini fresh and firm
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for crunch
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory boost
  • 1 tsp garlic powder for subtle garlicky flavor
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder rounds out the seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika adds smoky note and color
  • 1/2 tsp salt essential for seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 eggs eggs helps the coating stick
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour light dusting for crispiness
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray for golden finish
Optional Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise creamy base
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice adds fresh zing
  • 1 tsp minced garlic packs a punch
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley fresh herbaceous note
  • pinch salt balances the flavors

Equipment

  • Oven
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
  2. Step 2: Wash zucchini and slice into fry-sized sticks, keeping them roughly the same size for even cooking.
  3. Step 3: Set up breading station: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, Bowl 3 with panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Step 4: Dip each zucchini stick first in flour, then eggs, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan-panko mixture.
  5. Step 5: Arrange coated zucchini fries in a single layer on prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle tops with cooking spray or olive oil.
  6. Step 6: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping fries halfway through to ensure even golden crispiness.
  7. Step 7: While fries bake, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl for the optional dipping sauce.
  8. Step 8: Serve zucchini fries hot with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy as a snack or side dish.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil fries for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning. Air fryer option: cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 2 days; reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.