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- 2 large zucchinis - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick I always recommend using fresh zucchinis for this recipe. Fresh zucchinis have a crisp texture and bright flavor. When you slice them, they hold their shape well during baking. Frozen zucchinis can become soggy and lose their taste. If fresh zucchinis are not available, choose small frozen ones. If you do, make sure to thaw and drain them well before using. If you want a dairy-free version, you can use vegan cheese. Look for brands that melt well. Nutritional yeast is a great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also skip the cheese entirely and add more garlic and spices to keep the flavor strong. Use olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to make it tasty. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the zucchini just right. Next, rinse your zucchinis under cold water. Slice them in half lengthwise into thick steaks, about 1-inch thick. This thickness keeps them sturdy and tasty. In a small bowl, mix together 4 finely minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it well until all the ingredients blend together. This mixture is key for adding flavor to your zucchini steaks. Brush both sides of the zucchini steaks with the garlic olive oil mixture. Place them on a lined baking sheet in one layer. Bake for 15 minutes until they start to soften. After that, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted. For a crispy finish, broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. When done, add fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. For the full recipe, check below. To make your Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks burst with flavor, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic gives a stronger taste than pre-minced options. Also, don't skip the Italian seasoning. It adds depth and warmth. For a hint of heat, add red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your taste, but start small. Ovens can vary, which affects cooking time. If your oven runs hot, check the zucchini after 10 minutes. If it runs cool, it may need 20 minutes. Always keep an eye on the cheese. You want it bubbly and golden, but not burnt. One common mistake is cutting the zucchini too thin. If they are too thin, they can become mushy. Aim for 1-inch thick steaks. Also, be sure to coat both sides with the garlic mixture. Ignoring this step can lead to bland bites. Lastly, resist the urge to skip the broiling step. It creates that perfect golden crust that everyone loves. For the full recipe, check the Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks section. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheeses in this recipe. Try using gouda, cheddar, or feta. Each cheese adds a unique taste. For a creamy touch, add cream cheese to the mix. You can also top the zucchini with chopped tomatoes or olives for extra flavor. Mixing in herbs like basil or thyme can make the dish even better. These simple changes let you enjoy a new dish each time. Feel free to add more veggies to your zucchini steaks. Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even eggplant work well. You can roast them alongside the zucchini for extra flavor. If you want more protein, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey. You can also use beans for a plant-based option. Adding different veggies and proteins keeps this dish fresh and fun. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to your garlic mixture. Just a pinch can change the whole dish. If you love heat, feel free to add more. You can also use spicy cheese, like pepper jack. This spicy version brings a new level of taste and excitement. It’s perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. You can find the full recipe for Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks and more ideas to try. To store leftover zucchini steaks, place them in an airtight container. Let them cool to room temperature first. This helps keep their texture. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing. When you reheat zucchini steaks, you want to keep them tasty. The best way is to use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steaks on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. This keeps the cheese gooey and the zucchini tender. You can also use a microwave, but they may get soggy. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts and check often. Freezing zucchini steaks is a good way to save them. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each steak in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped steaks in a freezer bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as mentioned above for the best taste. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier sections. Yes, you can make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks in an air fryer! Just slice the zucchinis as you would for baking. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the zucchini with the garlic olive oil mixture, then place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes. Check them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You can add cheese during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, just like in the oven. You can serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks with many tasty sides. Here are some great options: - A fresh garden salad with light dressing - Quinoa or rice for a healthy grain option - Grilled chicken or fish for added protein - Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for comfort food - Garlic bread for a classic touch These sides can complement the cheesy zucchini nicely and create a complete meal. Leftover Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks can stay fresh in your fridge for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some of that cheesy goodness. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before freezing. You can find the full recipe [here](#). You’ve learned how to make cheesy garlic zucchini steaks, from ingredient choices to baking techniques. Remember to prep your zucchini well and be mindful of cooking times. Enjoy trying various cheese and veggie combos for added flavor. Store leftovers properly to keep them tasty. With these tips and tricks, you’ll avoid common mistakes and impress everyone with your dish. Embrace the fun in cooking and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!

- Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks

Discover the mouthwatering delight of Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks! This easy recipe transforms simple zucchinis into a cheesy, garlicky treat perfect for any meal. With just a handful of ingredients, including mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, you’ll have a dish that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. Click to explore this quick and satisfying recipe that will impress your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

2 large zucchinis

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.

    Rinse the zucchinis under running water, then slice each one lengthwise into thick steaks, approximately 1-inch thick. This thickness allows for a satisfying bite and helps them hold up during cooking.

      In a small mixing bowl, combine the finely minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until well blended.

        Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously coat both sides of each zucchini steak with the garlic olive oil mixture, ensuring they are fully covered for maximum flavor.

          Place the coated zucchini steaks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they begin to soften slightly.

            After 15 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over each zucchini steak, ensuring an even coverage.

              Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.

                For an irresistible golden-brown finish, switch the oven to broil for an extra 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent any burning.

                  Once the cheese has reached a delectable golden hue, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish the cheesy zucchini steaks with freshly chopped parsley and, if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes.

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesy zucchini steaks on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter. Drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction for a sophisticated touch, and pair with a fresh side salad for a delightful meal.