Crispy Zucchini Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Zucchini Veggie Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into fries; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large eggs, beaten; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Busy Food

I absolutely love making Crispy Zucchini Veggie Fries at home. They’re a delightful way to enjoy vegetables without sacrificing flavor or crunch. I often whip these up as a side dish or a snack, and they disappear quickly every time! The combination of seasoning and breadcrumbs gives them that much-needed crunch while keeping the zucchini tender inside. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen, as they can help with the breading process!

Created by

Ivy Sanderson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:21:36.799Z

Making Crispy Zucchini Veggie Fries has become one of my favorite kitchen activities! Each time I prepare them, I am reminded of the vibrant flavors and the satisfying crunch that makes them so irresistible. I like to experiment with different spices to give them a unique twist. For instance, adding smoked paprika enhances their flavor profile significantly!

The process is super simple yet so effective. I found that using a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and traditional breadcrumbs creates the perfect crust. Baking them instead of frying not only keeps them healthier but also allows me to enjoy them guilt-free!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture for that satisfying crunch
Flavor-packed with customizable seasonings
Healthy alternative to traditional fries

      

Mastering the Zucchini

Choosing the right zucchinis is crucial for achieving the best texture in your fries. Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis with smooth skin. Smaller zucchinis tend to be more tender and flavorful, while larger ones can have a spongy texture. If your zucchinis have large seeds, slice them thinly to maintain a good crunch. You can also peel them if you prefer a milder flavor, but the skin adds a lovely color and extra nutrients.

When slicing the zucchinis, aim for uniform thickness—about 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking; thinner pieces may burn while thicker ones remain undercooked. For added convenience, you can use a mandoline slicer for consistent sizes or a sharp knife if you enjoy the extra hands-on approach.

Perfecting the Coating

The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistibly crispy coating. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs, making them essential for achieving that satisfying texture. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your Parmesan is also gluten-free.

To enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. This not only adds a kick but also brings a lovely depth to the overall flavor. Alternatively, feel free to experiment with dried herbs like oregano or basil for a different twist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced into fries
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 large eggs, beaten
Olive oil spray

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfect Crispy Zucchini Veggie Fries:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Coating

In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Zucchini

Dip each zucchini fry into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray with olive oil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious and crunchy Zucchini Veggie Fries!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy fries, consider double-coating the zucchini or using an air fryer for an even healthier option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It'll be best to reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, you can restore their crispiness rather than using the microwave, which may make them soggy.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded zucchini fries. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they cook through and get crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Zucchini Veggie Fries are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving them with classic marinara sauce, tangy ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who enjoy a bit of heat. For a healthier option, a yogurt-based tzatziki sauce can be refreshing and complement the flavors beautifully.

These fries are versatile enough to be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or vegetarian burgers. You can also toss some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice over them right before serving to brighten the flavors and add an extra layer of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can try carrots, sweet potatoes, or eggplant as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead of regular panko.

→ What dipping sauces go well with this dish?

Some favorites include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or yogurt-based dips.