Save Pin If you crave a snack that is both crisp and bursting with flavor yet loaded with veggies these Cheesy Cajun Zucchini Sticks are the answer I always turn to them when I want something satisfying but easy to whip up for family movie nights or casual gatherings They transform humble zucchini into an irresistible bite thanks to a punchy Cajun blend and lots of Parmesan
My kids beg for these every summer when the garden gives us more zucchini than we know what to do with The cheesy crust and hint of spice always win new fans
Ingredients
- Zucchini: medium size three sticks are best for sturdy fries buy ones that feel heavy and have smooth dark green skin
- Parmesan cheese: fresh grated adds a deep nutty saltiness I always grab a wedge and grate just before using for the best melt and taste
- Gluten free breadcrumbs: or the classic kind if no sensitivity make sure they are dry and not clumpy this ups the crunch factor
- Cajun seasoning: delivers a lively heat and complexity a good blend will have paprika garlic herbs and a peppery finish
- Garlic powder: boosts savoriness
- Smoked paprika: introduces a subtle smoky rich layer opt for Spanish style if you can
- Salt: pulls all the flavors together and sharpens the taste
- Black pepper: freshly cracked ties into the other spices for zip
- Eggs: act as the sticky binder for the cheesy crust always go with large eggs for best coverage and hold
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing: totally optional but I love the cool contrast it gives with the zesty sticks
- Fresh parsley: brightens and gives a fresh finish always choose leafy green bunches
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan:
- Get your oven hot by preheating to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius and set up a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a little oil as this keeps the sticks from sticking and makes cleanup quick
- Cut the Zucchini:
- Trim off both ends of the zucchini then slice into sticks each about three inches long and half an inch wide keeping them uniform ensures they bake evenly with the breading
- Whisk the Eggs:
- In a shallow bowl break and beat the eggs thoroughly with a fork until the whites and yolks are fully blended which guarantees each stick gets even coating
- Mix the Crust:
- In a separate bowl combine grated Parmesan the breadcrumbs Cajun seasoning garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper stir them really well so all the flavors distribute evenly through the breading
- Coat the Zucchini:
- Dust your zucchini sticks lightly with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture dip each stick first into the egg mixture and then roll it generously in your cheesy Cajun mixture pressing gently to help the coating cling tightly on all sides
- Arrange on the Sheet:
- Line up the coated zucchini sticks on your baking tray spacing them apart slightly this lets the hot air circulate and crisp up the exterior
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for eighteen to twenty minutes flipping halfway through to get all sides golden and crisp watch closely at the end as ovens can vary
- Finish and Serve:
- Once crisp and golden take the sticks out and if you like scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and flavor serve immediately alongside your favorite dip while they are hot and melty
Save Pin Once I swapped in smoked gouda for half the Parmesan for an ultra smoky vibe and it was a huge hit My favorite part is always the crispy end pieces I sometimes sneak them before anyone else can grab them
Storage Tips
Store any leftover zucchini sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days To reheat put them in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes so they crisp back up Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy Freezing is not ideal since the zucchini’s natural moisture is high
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to go dairy free use a plant based cheese blend and sub flaxseed mixed with water for eggs Regular panko breadcrumbs can be used if gluten is not a concern For less heat use a mild taco or Italian seasoning instead of Cajun Add a dash of lemon zest to the breading for brightness
Serving Suggestions
I love serving these with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese but they also taste fantastic alongside marinara or spicy aioli Stack them on a platter with sliders for a summer cookout or offer as a crunchy veggie side for soup or salads
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Zucchini is a summer vegetable staple in American gardens and its tender flesh is perfect for baking Grated Parmesan and Cajun spices give a Southern nod to these fries making them an irresistible blend of regional flavors Late summer is when zucchinis are at their best and often most abundant
Save Pin Serve these sticks piping hot and watch them disappear in minutes The cheesy crust and Cajun kick guarantee they are a crowd pleaser every time
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve maximum crispiness on the zucchini sticks?
Bake the sticks at high heat and flip halfway. For extra crunch, broil briefly before serving.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Use dairy-free cheese and substitute eggs with flaxseed egg for a vegan-friendly version.
- → What dipping sauces complement these sticks?
Ranch, blue cheese dressing, or spicy aioli pair well with the bold flavors of the zucchini sticks.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs to ensure the dish fits gluten-free guidelines.
- → Can I adjust the heat level of the Cajun flavor?
Absolutely. Increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning according to your taste preference.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.