Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Steaks

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

Step 2: Sear the Zucchini

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place zucchini steaks in the pan in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed.
Sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and tender but not mushy.
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

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

Step 4: Add the Cheese

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

Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Option 1: Skillet Method

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

Option 2: Broiler Method

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

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

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

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American–Mediterranean