Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks are a quick and delicious way to turn zucchini into a hearty, satisfying dish. Grilled or roasted to perfection, these thick-cut zucchini “steaks” are topped with a savory garlic butter sauce and melted cheese, making them a perfect side dish or light meal. The blend of garlic, herbs, and gooey cheese creates a savory burst of flavor in every bite.
This simple yet flavorful dish is ideal for summer cookouts, a side to grilled meats, or as a low-carb alternative to traditional steak. It’s also a great way to use up zucchini from your garden while enjoying a healthy, delicious dish.
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 large zucchini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice zucchini lengthwise into thick 3/4-inch steaks. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill or roast zucchini for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly charred.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter and add minced garlic, parsley, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Remove zucchini from the grill or oven. Spoon garlic butter over each zucchini steak.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Return the zucchini to the grill or oven and cook for 3-5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve warm and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese before broiling.
- You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
History and Popularity of Zucchini in Cooking
Zucchini, or courgette, is a summer squash that originated in the Americas but became widely used in Italy and Europe. It became popular in U.S. kitchens in the 20th century, valued for its versatility, mild flavor, and nutritional benefits. From being used in pastas, soups, and even breads, zucchini has earned its place as a staple in many homes. The idea of preparing zucchini as “steaks” gives it a hearty feel, perfect for a vegetarian meal or side.
Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Zucchini
Thickly sliced zucchini serves as the base for this dish. Zucchini is naturally mild, which makes it an excellent vehicle for the garlic butter and cheese topping. It has a high water content, so grilling or roasting helps draw out excess moisture, concentrating the flavors.
- Tip: Choose medium to large zucchini to make sure the “steaks” are thick and sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Garlic Butter
A garlic butter sauce made with fresh garlic, melted butter, and herbs infuses the zucchini with rich, savory flavors. Garlic complements the mild zucchini beautifully, giving the dish depth and aroma.
- Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice to the garlic butter mixture.
Cheese
Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese is melted over the zucchini for a gooey, cheesy finish. Mozzarella gives a mild, creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite.
- Tip: For a different twist, try using cheddar or gruyere for more intense flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
Start by slicing the zucchini lengthwise into thick “steaks,” about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Season the zucchini slices with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This helps them stay flavorful and prevents them from drying out during grilling or roasting.
- Tip: For extra flavor, rub the zucchini slices with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Step 2: Making the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and stir in minced garlic. Cook the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute, making sure not to burn it. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in chopped parsley, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
- Pro Tip: To make this recipe dairy-free, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for the garlic sauce.
Step 3: Grilling or Roasting the Zucchini
Grill the zucchini steaks over medium-high heat or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C). Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes until you get a nice char, or roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Pro Tip: If using the oven, place the zucchini on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. For extra crispiness, broil the zucchini for the last 2 minutes of roasting.
Step 4: Adding the Cheese
Once the zucchini is cooked through, spoon the garlic butter mixture over the top of each zucchini steak. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the zucchini.
Place the zucchini back on the grill or in the oven and cook just until the cheese melts and turns golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
- Tip: If you want the cheese extra bubbly, broil the zucchini for a minute or two until the top is golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course. They pair beautifully with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or pork chops. For a more substantial meal, serve the zucchini steaks over a bed of quinoa, rice, or pasta.
Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations and Add-Ins
Cheesy Zucchini with Pesto
For an extra burst of flavor, spread a thin layer of basil pesto over the zucchini steaks before adding the cheese. The combination of garlic butter, pesto, and cheese makes this dish even more indulgent.
Spicy Zucchini Steaks
Add a kick of spice by incorporating sriracha or hot sauce into the garlic butter mixture. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder on the zucchini before grilling for added heat.
Zucchini Steaks with Tomatoes
Layer sliced tomatoes over the zucchini steaks before adding the cheese for a fresh and juicy twist. The tomatoes add a pop of color and enhance the summer flavors of the dish.
Dietary Adaptations
This Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks recipe can be easily modified for different dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your seasonings and cheese for any added gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter alternative and dairy-free shredded cheese.
- Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil and use vegan cheese to make the dish fully plant-based.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe works well with other summer squashes like yellow squash or pattypan squash. They have a similar texture to zucchini and will cook in the same way.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I prepare the zucchini steaks in advance?
Yes! You can slice and season the zucchini ahead of time, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill or roast. The garlic butter can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill or oven, you can cook the zucchini steaks in a skillet over medium heat. Sear them on both sides, add the garlic butter, and then cover with cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid to help melt the cheese.