Crispy Parmesan Ranch Baked Zucchini Fries
Crunchy, golden, and loaded with flavor, these baked zucchini fries are coated in a parmesan ranch breadcrumb crust for the ultimate healthy snack or side. Quick to make and irresistibly crispy, they’re a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb/450g), ends trimmed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If using a wire rack, place it over the baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Wash and dry zucchini. Cut off ends, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, then slice each half into 4-6 sticks about 1/2-inch thick. If zucchini is large, scoop out seedy centers.
- Set up a dredging station: Place flour in one shallow bowl. Beat eggs in a second bowl. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and ranch seasoning.
- Coat each zucchini stick in flour (shake off excess), dip in beaten eggs (let excess drip off), then roll in the parmesan-ranch breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange coated fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fry.
- Lightly mist fries with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes, flipping fries halfway through (if not using a rack), until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with a pinch of salt if desired, and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crispiness, pat zucchini dry before dredging and avoid crowding the baking sheet. Use gluten-free panko and flour for a gluten-free version. Air fryer method: cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Serve hot for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer. Try with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for dipping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/4 of the recipe (1 serving)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 480
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
Keywords: zucchini fries, baked zucchini, parmesan ranch fries, healthy snack, vegetable fries, oven baked, kid friendly, gluten free option, vegetarian, easy appetizer