Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

If you’re looking to bring new life to humble garden zucchini, this Delicious Recipe for Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks is a total game-changer. Imagine golden, caramelized zucchini slabs brushed with fragrant garlic oil, topped with oozy mozzarella and nutty Parmesan, then kissed under the broiler for bubbly, cheesy goodness. Finished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of heat, this dish is a pure celebration of flavor and texture in every bite—delivering massive “wow” with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of what makes this Delicious Recipe such a weeknight hero is how basic yet purposeful the ingredient list is. Each element builds a layer, from savory depth and melty cheese to that all-important pop of bright, fresh basil.

• Zucchinis: Medium-sized for the perfect “steak” texture—firm enough to hold their shape, but tender when cooked.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves, finely chopped or grated, infuse the oil with bold, aromatic flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For just the right hint of heat—adjust to taste or sprinkle extra at the end.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out moisture, giving the zucchini that rich, concentrated flavor.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Divided throughout the recipe; adds lushness and helps everything caramelize beautifully.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded for an irresistible, gooey topping without overpowering the zucchini.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded for savory sharpness and golden color after broiling.
• Fresh Basil: Torn leaves bring an herbaceous, peppery finish—don’t skip this final touch!

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Step 1: Prep and Score the Zucchini

Start by grabbing your sharpest knife and halving each zucchini lengthwise, so you end up with 4 lovely “steaks.” To help the flavors sink in, gently score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt and let them rest cut-side up for about 15 minutes—this simple trick draws out excess water and magnifies their flavor.

Step 2: Infuse the Garlic Oil

In a large skillet over medium heat, mix 2 tablespoons of the olive oil with the chopped garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Let them gently sizzle for about 1 to 2 minutes; you’re not looking to brown the garlic, just to bloom its aromas. The kitchen will smell absolutely incredible at this stage! Once fragrant, immediately transfer the oil to a small bowl to prevent the garlic from burning.

Step 3: Sear the Zucchini Steaks

Pat the salted zucchini halves dry—this helps them brown, not steam! In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lay two zucchini steaks flesh-side down. Sear until golden brown and lightly caramelized, about 2 to 3 minutes. Move them onto a baking sheet and repeat with the remaining zucchini and oil. The quick sear adds gorgeous color and tons of flavor.

Step 4: Brush with Garlic Oil & Bake

Using a pastry brush or spoon, lavish the garlic oil all over the seared zucchini tops. Slide the baking sheet into a preheated 425°F oven, and bake until the zucchini are tender but not mushy—about 8 to 10 minutes. They’ll smell mouthwatering!

Step 5: Top with Cheese & Broil

Once the zucchini is perfectly roasted, take it out and shower each steak generously with mozzarella and Parmesan. Return to the oven and switch on the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely: you want the cheese bubbly and browned in spots, not burned.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Remove the zucchini from the oven, transfer to a serving platter, and finish with torn basil leaves and extra crushed red pepper flakes. Stand back and admire your handiwork before diving in—this Delicious Recipe is best eaten hot and fresh!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Garnishes

Brush on some more garlic oil just before serving to heighten the aroma, and don’t forget a final tumble of torn basil leaves. A sprinkle of extra crushed red pepper flakes offers a gentle kick, while a dusting of additional Parmesan never hurt anyone.

Side Dishes

This Delicious Recipe is truly versatile—serve it as a hearty vegetarian main with couscous or creamy polenta, or pair alongside roast chicken, grilled fish, or simply a crusty hunk of sourdough for a comforting meal. A crisp green salad balances the cheese and warmth beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fancy, arrange the zucchini steaks on a big platter, overlapping slightly, and scatter with basil ribbons and microgreens. Or slice the finished steaks into chunky batons and serve as cheesy “zucchini fries” at your next gathering. However you plate it, this Delicious Recipe always shines.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have some leftover Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks? Let them cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep nicely for up to 3 days, perfect for easy lunches or next-day snacks.

Freezing

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftover zucchini steaks if needed. Wrap each cheesy portion in parchment and seal in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for a month, making future cravings easy to satisfy—just know that texture will be a bit softer after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, place zucchini steaks on a baking sheet and pop into a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is bubbling again. Avoid the microwave if you can; an oven or toaster oven restores that melty, crispy cheese topping this Delicious Recipe is known for.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works wonderfully in this recipe—just choose medium-sized, firm squash for best results. The flavor is mild and the texture is almost identical to zucchini, so you won’t miss a beat.

Is there a way to make it vegan?

You bet! Substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with your favorite vegan cheese shreds, and make sure your olive oil and seasonings are vegan-friendly. The result will still be a Delicious Recipe full of creamy, herby flavors.

What’s the best way to avoid soggy zucchini?

Letting the zucchini sit salted for 15 minutes and patting them dry is key—it pulls out excess water so the steaks roast beautifully instead of becoming mushy. Searing also helps lock in their structure before baking.

Can I prepare the garlic oil in advance?

Yes, you can make the infused garlic oil a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before brushing onto the zucchini steaks, to keep everything luscious and easy to spread.

How spicy is it with the red pepper flakes?

It’s as spicy as you want it to be! The recipe calls for just a touch, making the heat present but subtle. If you love more spice, feel free to sprinkle extra flakes when serving; if you’re sensitive, use less—it’ll still be a Delicious Recipe every time.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Delicious Recipe has become a true go-to in my kitchen, and I hope it earns a much-loved spot in yours too. Give it a try, savor every cheesy, herby bite, and don’t be surprised when friends and family start asking for your Delicious Recipe secrets!

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