Cheesy Zucchini Rounds

Description

These Cheesy Zucchini Rounds are an easy, flavorful low-carb side dish or appetizer made with tender zucchini, garlic, Italian herbs, and plenty of gooey melted cheese. They’re quick to prepare, naturally low in carbohydrates, and perfect when you want something cheesy and satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the zucchini: Slice zucchini into evenly sized rounds. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Season: Arrange zucchini in a single layer. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over each zucchini round.
Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Broil: For extra golden, bubbly cheese, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings

4 servings
Approximately 5–6 zucchini rounds per serving, depending on the size of your zucchini.

Recipe Notes

Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for the best texture.
Don’t slice the zucchini too thin or it can become overly soft.
Patting the zucchini dry helps prevent a watery result.
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and browning.
For a stronger garlic flavor, replace garlic powder with 1 small minced garlic clove.
Serve immediately for the best cheesy texture.

Tips & Variations

Make it extra crispy:
Place the zucchini under the broiler for the final 1–2 minutes.

Add Mediterranean flavor:
Sprinkle with dried oregano and finish with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.

Add heat:
Use a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Change the cheese:
Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or a mozzarella-Parmesan blend.

Air fryer option:
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 7–9 minutes, checking toward the end.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving, based on the ingredients above:

Calories: 155
Protein: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Net Carbs: 4 g
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Sodium: 330 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the brands and exact ingredients used.

Benefits

Zucchini provides fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Cheese adds protein and calcium.
This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates.
It’s an easy way to add more vegetables to your meals.
The combination of zucchini, herbs, and cheese makes a satisfying side without requiring complicated ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and season the zucchini ahead of time, then add the cheese and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Why is my zucchini watery?
Zucchini naturally contains a lot of water. Pat the slices dry before baking and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini is recommended because frozen zucchini releases more moisture and may become too soft.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaged cheese and seasonings if cross-contamination is a concern.

Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or a mozzarella-Parmesan combination all work beautifully.

What can I serve with cheesy zucchini rounds?
They pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked fish, steak, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.

Can I make them in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7–9 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden.