Crispy Zucchini Fries with Homemade Ranch Dip
Picture this: a rainy afternoon with the family gathered around the table, dipping crispy, golden zucchini fries into a creamy, homemade ranch dip. That’s exactly how this recipe found its place in our weekly rotation. As a mom always looking for ways to sneak more veggies into my kids’ diets, I stumbled upon the idea of zucchini fries while experimenting in the kitchen one day. The results? Let’s just say my skeptical kids quickly transformed into zucchini lovers after one bite of these crispy, cheesy delights.
What I adore most about this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a handful of pantry staples and some fresh zucchini to create something extraordinary. The Parmesan-panko coating crisps up beautifully in the oven, delivering that irresistible crunch we all crave, while the homemade ranch dip provides a tangy, creamy balance. My husband, who’s typically not a fan of zucchini, often goes back for seconds and thirds. And for me? I love that it’s a healthier alternative to traditional fries that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
This dish is not only a hit as a snack but also doubles as a party appetizer or even a light side dish. Whether you’re a busy mom looking for an easy veggie-packed recipe or someone who loves experimenting with comfort food, these zucchini fries will be your new go-to. Trust me; you’ll want to make them again and again!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I make these zucchini fries gluten-free? Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re good to go.
Do I need to peel the zucchini? No, the skin helps the fries hold their shape and adds extra nutrients. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly.
Can I air fry these instead of baking? Absolutely! Air fry them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for perfectly crispy fries.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
What You Need to Make Crispy Zucchini Fries
Ingredients:
3 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
For the Ranch Dip:
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tools:
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Whisk
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fries
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prep the zucchini: Slice zucchinis into sticks about ½ inch thick.
Prepare the coating: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Coat the zucchini: Dip each zucchini stick into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Make the ranch dip: While the fries bake, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Serve: Serve the zucchini fries warm with the ranch dip on the side.
Tips for Making the Best Zucchini Fries
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer to ensure even crispiness.
Pat the zucchini dry: Use a paper towel to remove excess moisture before coating to prevent sogginess.
Add a kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts and crisps better than pre-grated varieties.
Double-dip for extra crunch: Dip the zucchini in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice for a thicker coating.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These are AMAZING! My kids devoured them, and they’re usually picky eaters. Thank you for this recipe!” – Sarah B.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect snack for game night. I added a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumbs, and they turned out great!” – Mark T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “So easy to make and incredibly delicious. The ranch dip is a must-try!” – Lisa M.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The flavor was excellent, but mine weren’t as crispy as I hoped. Next time, I’ll try the air fryer.” – Emily R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved these! I’ll be making them again for our next family gathering.” – Jamie L.
Printable Recipe
Crispy Zucchini Fries with Homemade Ranch Dip
Crispy Zucchini Fries are the ultimate guilt-free comfort food! Coated in a Parmesan-panko crust and baked to golden perfection, they’re served with a tangy homemade ranch dip. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or anytime munching.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- For the Ranch Dip:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tools:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prep the zucchini: Slice zucchinis into sticks about ½ inch thick.
- Prepare the coating: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Coat the zucchini: Dip each zucchini stick into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the ranch dip: While the fries bake, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Serve: Serve the zucchini fries warm with the ranch dip on the side.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
Good food is meant to be shared, and this recipe is no exception! If your family loved these crispy zucchini fries as much as mine did, I’d love for you to share it with your friends and followers. Snap a picture, tag me on social media, and use the hashtag #ZucchiniFriesFun. Let’s spread the love for this delicious, veggie-packed snack.
