Description

Elevate your side dish game or go fully meatless with these Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese. Thick zucchini slices are pan-seared or oven-roasted until golden, then topped with a rich garlic butter glaze and finished under the broiler with a bubbling layer of cheese. The result? A decadent yet wholesome dish that’s savory, satisfying, and perfect as a main or side.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Zucchini Steaks:

3 large zucchini (choose thick, firm ones)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)

For the Garlic Butter:

3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)

For the Cheese Topping:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning

Optional Garnish:

Extra chopped parsley
Red pepper flakes
Lemon zest

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Instructions

Step 1: Slice the Zucchini
Trim the ends of each zucchini.
Cut each one lengthwise into ½ to ¾-inch thick slices to resemble “steaks.”
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Sear or Roast the Zucchini
Option 1 – Pan-Sear:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Place zucchini steaks in the pan in a single layer.
Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if needed.

Option 2 – Oven Roast:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Arrange zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Roast for 15–18 minutes, flipping once, until tender and slightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
While zucchini cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan.
Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (not browned).
Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Glaze and Top with Cheese
Once zucchini steaks are cooked, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet or keep in the oven-safe skillet.
Brush generously with garlic butter.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
Add a pinch of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

Step 5: Broil Until Golden
Place under the broiler on high for 2–4 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
Keep a close eye—cheese browns quickly!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with extra parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Notes

Use Thick Zucchini – Bigger zucchini gives better texture and shape.
Dry Well – Helps achieve a better sear and prevents sogginess.
Don’t Overcrowd – If pan-searing, cook in batches for best browning.
Broil Briefly – Just enough to melt and brown the cheese, not overcook the zucchini.
Add Protein – Top with chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu for a full meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired / American