Baked Zucchini Fries

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Baked Zucchini Fries are the ultimate crispy, guilt-free snack or side dish. With a golden, crunchy coating and tender zucchini center, these fries bring all the satisfaction of traditional fried snacks without the heavy oil. They make a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters who still crave a bit of crunch. Served with your favorite dipping sauce, they disappear fast at parties, game nights, or family dinners.

What sets them apart is the clever use of cornmeal and Parmesan, giving each fry a crisp bite and savory depth. Whether you’re sneaking in more veggies for your kids or looking for a lighter game day snack, these zucchini fries deliver flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re easy to prep and bake—no fryer required.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Zucchini Fries Recipe

• Crispy without deep-frying: Achieve that satisfying crunch without submerging in oil.
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters love these, especially with ranch or garlic aioli on the side.
• Perfect for dipping: Great with marinara, spicy mayo, or your favorite sauce.
• Low-carb alternative: Skip the potato fries and opt for something just as tasty but more nutritious.
• Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find and pantry-friendly.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, set yourself up for success with the right tools:

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing the zucchini into even matchsticks.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: Ensures non-stick roasting and easy cleanup.
• Cooling Rack (Optional): Elevate the fries for even crisping on all sides.
• Mixing Bowls (3): For flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixture—a proper dredging station makes coating quick and clean.
• Tongs or Fork: Keeps your hands from getting messy during the dipping process.
• Oven: A good preheat (around 425°F) is critical for crisp texture.

Using the right tools isn’t just about ease—they help deliver those perfect golden edges and ensure every fry is evenly cooked and delicious.

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Ingredients for the Baked Zucchini Fries

• Zucchini: The star of the show. Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for optimal texture and moisture balance.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the egg mixture stick and forms the first layer of coating.
• Eggs: Acts as the glue, binding the crumb layer to the zucchini.
• Cornmeal: Adds a distinctive crispy texture and a southern-style crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the cornmeal.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor with a punch of warmth.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a herbaceous kick that complements the zucchini.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

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How To Make the Baked Zucchini Fries

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice them into fry-like sticks, about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Try to keep the sizes uniform so they bake evenly.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

Prepare three shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: Flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
• Bowl 3: A mixture of cornmeal, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Zucchini

Dip each zucchini stick first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated zucchini sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For extra crispness, use a cooling rack set on top of the sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or a spicy garlic aioli. Enjoy the crispy outside and tender inside of every bite.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Baked Zucchini Fries

These crispy zucchini fries are at their best fresh from the oven, served hot and golden. Pair them with a cool, creamy dip like ranch or garlic aioli for a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. They also make a deliciously light side for burgers, grilled chicken, or even veggie wraps.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, skip the microwave and instead pop them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back their crispiness.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of zucchini changes when thawed and can become soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can slice and coat the zucchini in advance, then refrigerate for a few hours before baking. For best results, bake them right before serving.

Can I use an air fryer instead of baking?

Absolutely! Air fry the zucchini fries at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. They turn out wonderfully crispy.

What dipping sauces go best with zucchini fries?

Ranch, marinara, chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or garlic aioli are all great companions. You can even serve them with tzatziki for a Mediterranean twist.

How do I get the crispiest texture?

Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan—space them out so they bake, not steam.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes! Yellow squash works similarly in texture and taste, making it a great substitute.

Are these fries gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and cornmeal.

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Want More Veggie Snack Ideas?

If these crispy Baked Zucchini Fries made you swoon, you’ll love these other flavor-packed veggie-based recipes from my kitchen:

• Try the cheesy goodness of Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for another crunchy, oven-baked side.
• Craving Mediterranean flavors? The Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza hits the spot with tangy sauce and colorful veggies.
• These Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps are perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
• Don’t miss the cozy Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a rich, satisfying vegetarian-friendly bake.
• And if you’re in the mood for a dip, the Spicy Ranch Taco Dip is a must-have at any gathering.

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I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you add a twist—maybe a dash of cayenne or a sprinkle of fresh herbs? Or did you pair it with a unique dip? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments!

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