Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style recommended)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Optional Protein Additions
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or sliced beef, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato or marinara sauce (optional, for extra moisture and flavor)
Recommended Tools
- Baking sheet or air fryer
- Mixing bowls (2–3)
- Parchment paper (for baking)
- Tongs or forks for coating
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
1. Slice and Prep the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Slice each zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds, trying to keep the thickness uniform for even cooking.
- Lay the slices on a clean towel or paper towel.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out excess moisture.
- Let sit for about 10–15 minutes.
- Pat them dry again before breading.
2. Prepare the Breading Station
- Place flour in a shallow dish.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Bread the Zucchini Rounds
- Take one slice of zucchini and coat it lightly in flour.
- Dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Press it into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
- Repeat with all zucchini slices.
- Set aside on a clean plate.
4. Cook the Zucchini
Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange breaded zucchini slices in a single layer.
- Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden and crispy.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place zucchini slices in a single layer in the basket.
- Lightly spray with olive oil.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
5. Assemble the Stacks
- Once zucchini slices are cooked, prepare to layer.
- Choose 3 slices per stack—start with a base.
- Add a small amount of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add some shredded chicken or beef, if using.
- Add a second zucchini slice and repeat the layering.
- Top with a final zucchini round and finish with more cheese.
- Spoon a small amount of tomato sauce on top (optional).
6. Final Bake
- Return the stacked zucchini rounds to the oven (or air fryer if it fits).
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a browned, golden cheese topping.
Notes
- Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer if you want evenly cut zucchini slices. This helps with stacking and consistent cooking.
- Salting Zucchini: Drawing out water with salt is key to avoid soggy stacks. Always pat dry thoroughly.
- Breadcrumb Options: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor. Panko offers extra crunch. Choose based on your texture preference.
- Protein Fillings: Keep meat thinly sliced or finely shredded so it doesn’t make stacks too thick or unstable.
- Cheese Substitutes: Try fontina, gouda, or provolone if you want to experiment with different melting cheeses.
- Vegetarian Version: Just skip the meat and load up with extra cheese and herbs.
- Make Ahead: Breaded zucchini slices can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes