Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese

Elevate your veggie game with these Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese! Thick-cut zucchini is pan-seared until golden, then smothered in a savory garlic herb butter and topped with melty cheese. It’s a hearty, low-carb, and flavor-packed vegetarian main or side that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Satisfying – Thick zucchini slices feel meaty and substantial.
Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients.
Packed with Flavor – Garlic butter, herbs, and cheese take it to the next level.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – A perfect vegetable-based dish with fewer carbs.
Versatile – Great as a main, side, or even a vegetarian entrée.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Zucchini Steaks:

• 2 large zucchinis, cut lengthwise into thick ½-inch “steaks”
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

For the Cheese Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: 2 tbsp crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra flavor

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
• Small saucepan
• Spatula or tongs
• Baking sheet and oven (optional for broiling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Steaks

1. Wash and dry the zucchinis.
2. Slice each zucchini lengthwise into ½-inch thick steaks. You should get 3–4 steaks per zucchini depending on size.
3. Season both sides with a light sprinkle of salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Zucchini

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place zucchini steaks in the pan in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed.
3. Sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and tender but not mushy.
4. Transfer cooked zucchini to a baking sheet (if broiling) or leave in the skillet if it’s oven-safe.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (do not brown).
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped parsley.
4. Remove from heat and spoon the garlic butter over the zucchini steaks.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the zucchini.
2. For an extra gourmet touch, crumble a bit of feta or goat cheese on top.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Option 1: Skillet Method

1. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt over low heat for 2–3 minutes.

Option 2: Broiler Method

1. Place the baking sheet under a preheated broiler for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

1. Sprinkle with more fresh parsley before serving.
2. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside grilled chicken, pasta, or salad.

Tips for Success
Choose Large Zucchini – Bigger zucchinis give better, steak-like slices.
Don’t Overcook – Keep them tender with a slight bite for the best texture.
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet – Helps create a beautiful golden crust.
Add Cheese After Garlic Butter – Prevents cheese from absorbing too much butter and getting greasy.
Customize the Herbs – Add fresh basil or rosemary for a different flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions
As a Main Dish – Serve with quinoa, couscous, or a side of garlic bread.
As a Side – Pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
Over Pasta – Spoon zucchini and melted cheese over spaghetti or linguine for a veggie-forward twist.
In Sandwiches – Layer inside crusty bread for a gourmet veggie melt.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Let leftovers cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, though the texture may be softer.
• Skillet: Warm over low heat to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I grill the zucchini instead?
   Absolutely! Just grill each side for 3–4 minutes, then add the garlic butter and cheese afterward.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes—use plant-based butter and vegan cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, too.
3. What other veggies work with this recipe?
   Try eggplant, portobello mushrooms, or even thick bell pepper slices.
4. Can I prep these ahead?
   Yes—sear the zucchini and make the garlic butter ahead. Assemble and broil when ready to serve.
5. Is this keto-friendly?
   Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and packed with flavor and healthy fats.

Final Thoughts
Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese are proof that vegetables can be luxurious, comforting, and seriously satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a meatless main or a stunning side, these zucchini steaks will earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Make them once, and you’ll be hooked. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American–Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 9g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 310mg

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