Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries

When you’re craving something crispy but want to keep things healthy, these baked zucchini fries are your answer. The secret to their incredible crunch lies in the double coating technique – we coat them once, bake halfway, then add another layer of breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness. They’re perfect as a side dish, snack, or even a guilt-free appetizer that both kids and adults will love.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini fries in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. They're best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Steps:

Prepare the oven and baking sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Season and coat the zucchini
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil onto the prepared baking sheet. Place the zucchini pieces on the sheet, then drizzle the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over them. Season generously with salt and black pepper, then toss everything together until well coated.
Add the first coating
Sprinkle 1 cup of breadcrumbs over the seasoned zucchini and toss until each piece is evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
First bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. The zucchini will start to soften and the breadcrumbs will begin to set.
Add second coating and finish baking
Remove from oven and toss the zucchini with the remaining 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

Nutritions

  • Calories

    245 kcal

    Energy

    1025 kJ

    Protein

    5 g

    Fat

    13 g

    Carbohydrates

    27 g

    Fiber

    3 g

    Sugars

    4 g

    Salt

    0.8 g

Recipe Variations

This recipe is easy to adapt to your taste. Try one of the variations below to change the flavor or ingredients.

FAQ

Yes! You can substitute with crushed cornflakes, panko, or even finely ground nuts like almonds for a gluten-free option.
Soggy fries usually result from too much moisture. Try patting the zucchini dry with paper towels before coating, and don’t skip the double coating technique.
You can cut and season the zucchini a few hours ahead, but it’s best to add the breadcrumbs and bake them just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Try ranch dressing, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a simple yogurt-based dip with herbs and lemon.