Looking for a meatless dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and feels indulgent? These Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese are the perfect solution. Thick-cut zucchini “steaks” are seared or roasted to golden perfection, brushed with garlic herb butter, then finished with melty cheese for a satisfying, gourmet-style vegetarian main or side dish.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty & Satisfying – Thick zucchini steaks feel substantial and filling.
Garlicky Goodness – Infused with garlic butter and herbs.
Cheesy Finish – Gooey melted cheese makes every bite irresistible.
Quick & Elegant – Perfect for weeknight dinners or a fancy veggie course.
Versatile – Serve as a main, side, or even layered in sandwiches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Zucchini Steaks:
• 2 large zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ½-inch thick “steaks”
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Cheese Topping:
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese for added flavor
Optional Garnish & Sides:
• Extra parsley or basil
• Drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Serve with quinoa, pasta, or crusty bread
Tools You’ll Need
• Large skillet or grill pan (or use oven)
• Small saucepan for garlic butter
• Baking tray (if roasting)
• Spatula or tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
Slice zucchini lengthwise into ½-inch thick slabs.
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Cook the Zucchini Steaks
Option 1 – Skillet:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear zucchini for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and tender, but not mushy.
Option 2 – Oven Roasted:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place seasoned zucchini steaks on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Roast for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and tender.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small pan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in parsley, lemon juice, and chili flakes if using.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Broil
Arrange cooked zucchini steaks on a tray or oven-safe dish.
Brush generously with garlic butter.
Top each steak with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Broil on high for 2–3 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
Serve hot as a main dish or alongside your favorite pasta, salad, or grain.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Steaks
Use Large Zucchini – Easier to slice into thick, steak-like portions.
Don’t Overcook – Keep them tender with a bite, not mushy.
Sear for Flavor – A good crust adds great texture.
Cheese Options – Try smoked mozzarella, fontina, or gouda for different flavors.
Make it a Meal – Top with roasted chickpeas or pair with grains.
Serving Suggestions
• Over creamy polenta or risotto
• Layered on toast with pesto for a hearty open-faced sandwich
• Alongside roasted potatoes or wild rice
• As a filling for wraps or pita with hummus
• Topped with a fried egg for brunch vibes
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Best texture when reheated in oven or air fryer.
Reheating:
• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: 375°F for 5–6 minutes.
• Microwave: 1–2 minutes (cheese may soften more).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I grill these instead of searing or baking?
Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
2. What other vegetables work well with this method?
Try eggplant, portobello mushrooms, or large bell pepper halves.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.
4. Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
Yes! Zucchini is naturally low in carbs and high in fiber.
5. Can I prep these in advance?
You can cook and store the zucchini, then reheat and add cheese just before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese prove that vegetables can be indulgent, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a side, they bring gourmet appeal to the table with minimal effort.
Try them tonight and elevate your veggie game! Don’t forget to share your creations and leave a review!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Vegetarian / Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 zucchini steaks):
Calories: 240 | Protein: 9g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 320mg
Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Looking for a meatless dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and feels indulgent? These Gourmet Garlic Zucchini Steaks with Cheese are the perfect solution. Thick-cut zucchini “steaks” are seared or roasted to golden perfection, brushed with garlic herb butter, then finished with melty cheese for a satisfying, gourmet-style vegetarian main or side dish.
Want more veggie-forward recipes with gourmet flair? Subscribe now to get the best plant-based creations delivered to your inbox!
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Steaks:
• 2 large zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ½-inch thick “steaks”
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Cheese Topping:
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese for added flavor
Optional Garnish & Sides:
• Extra parsley or basil
• Drizzle of balsamic glaze
• Serve with quinoa, pasta, or crusty bread
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
Slice zucchini lengthwise into ½-inch thick slabs.
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Cook the Zucchini Steaks
Option 1 – Skillet:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear zucchini for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and tender, but not mushy.
Option 2 – Oven Roasted:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place seasoned zucchini steaks on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Roast for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until browned and tender.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small pan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in parsley, lemon juice, and chili flakes if using.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Broil
Arrange cooked zucchini steaks on a tray or oven-safe dish.
Brush generously with garlic butter.
Top each steak with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Broil on high for 2–3 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
Serve hot as a main dish or alongside your favorite pasta, salad, or grain.
Notes
Use Large Zucchini – Easier to slice into thick, steak-like portions.
Don’t Overcook – Keep them tender with a bite, not mushy.
Sear for Flavor – A good crust adds great texture.
Cheese Options – Try smoked mozzarella, fontina, or gouda for different flavors.
Make it a Meal – Top with roasted chickpeas or pair with grains.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
