Easy Slider Crispy Zucchini Parmesan

Name: Easy Slider Crispy Zucchini Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 large egg, beaten; Olive oil for frying; Slider buns; Marinara sauce (optional); Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Easy Slider Crispy Zucchini Parmesan as a delightful appetizer or a fun side dish for our meals. The combination of fresh zucchini, crispy breadcrumbs, and melted Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering bite-sized treat that's irresistible. Not only are these sliders quick to prepare, but they’re also a great way to sneak in some veggies! Perfect for gatherings, these sliders always impress and leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:43:12.148Z

When I first experimented with these sliders, I was trying to find a way to use the abundance of zucchini from my garden. I stumbled upon the idea of making them crispy and cheesy, and it was a game changer. The crunch of the breadcrumb coating combined with the texture of the zucchini creates a delightful contrast that I can never resist!

One tip I discovered is to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini before breading. This ensures that they stay crispy instead of getting soggy. Trust me, it's a simple step that makes all the difference in achieving that perfect crunch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy and crunchy texture that kids and adults adore.
Nutty flavor from Parmesan cheese enhances the zucchini taste.
Quick to make and ideal for casual get-togethers.

      

Mastering the Zucchini Prep

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your sliders is properly prepping the zucchini. After slicing the zucchinis, squeezing out excess moisture is crucial; if they're too wet, the sliders can turn out soggy instead of crispy. To expedite this process, you can also sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out more moisture before squeezing.

When slicing, aim for rounds that are about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness allows them to cook evenly and maintain a bit of structure in the final sliders. If your slices are too thin, they might become overly fragile, while thicker slices may require additional baking time for that delicious crispiness.

Breading Technique

The breadcrumb coating is what gives these sliders their characteristic crunch. Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier finish, as they have a larger surface area and create a delightful texture. You can also mix in some crushed cornflakes for added crunch if you want to experiment with different flavors and textures.

When breading the zucchini, ensure each slice is thoroughly coated. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the zucchini to create a sturdy crust that won’t easily fall off during baking. A light hand with the egg wash can help prevent the mixture from getting soggy—a common pitfall that can lead to a disappointing outcome.

Serving and Variations

These sliders shine when served hot and fresh from the oven. To elevate the experience, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, balsamic glaze, or a spicy marinara. This allows guests to personalize their sliders and enjoy different flavor profiles in each bite.

Feel free to customize your sliders with different herbs and toppings. Adding fresh mozzarella to the sliders just before serving can enhance the cheesy goodness. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap out breadcrumbs for ground almonds or chickpea flour. Whatever your choice, these variations allow you to cater to different dietary needs while keeping the essence of the recipe intact.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Sliders

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large egg, beaten
Olive oil for frying

For Serving

Slider buns
Marinara sauce (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds and place them in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

Coat the Zucchini

In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dip each zucchini slice in the beaten egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake the Sliders

Arrange the coated zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly drizzle or spray with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble and Serve

Once baked, place the crispy zucchini on slider buns. Top with marinara sauce and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the crunchy goodness!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. These sliders also freeze well
just thaw and reheat in the oven when you're ready to serve them!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or gatherings. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

If you want to freeze the sliders, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and crispy, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Common Troubleshooting

If your sliders are not crisping up as expected, check the moisture level of your zucchini. Even with proper squeezing, excess moisture can become trapped. Try increasing the baking time a little or ensuring your oven is accurately preheated before baking to achieve that golden brown crust.

Another common issue could be a lack of flavor in your coating. To enhance the taste, consider seasoning your breadcrumbs with a pinch of cayenne pepper or adding herbs like oregano or thyme. This not only boosts flavor but also contributes to the overall appeal of the sliders, making them more enjoyable for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella and cheddar also work well and add a nice flavor.

→ How can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini slices a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before coating and baking.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of marinara sauce for dipping.