These Crispy Zucchini Fries are a game-changer for snack lovers, offering a golden, crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful center. Paired with a creamy BBQ sauce, they’re a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re an easy yet impressive treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
Lightly seasoned and baked to perfection, these fries deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the zucchini keeps them fresh and wholesome. The creamy BBQ dip adds a rich, velvety contrast that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table in no time.
What You’ll Need for Crispy Zucchini Fries with Creamy BBQ Sauce
- 2 large eggs, beaten (use room temperature eggs for easier mixing)
- 3 Tablespoons flour (all-purpose works best, but gluten-free flour can be substituted)
- ½ cup bread crumbs (panko or regular, or use gluten-free bread crumbs if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (or substitute with 1 clove minced fresh garlic for a stronger flavor)
- 2 Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best, but pre-grated is fine)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 medium zucchini, cut into skinny sticks (about ¼-inch thick)
- Cooking spray (or lightly grease the baking sheet with oil)
- For the Creamy BBQ Sauce:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (regular or light mayo works)
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fries with Creamy BBQ Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside.
- Prepare the coating stations: In a small bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In a second bowl, add the flour. In a third bowl, combine the bread crumbs, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Coat the zucchini sticks: Dip each zucchini stick into the flour (shake off excess), then into the beaten egg, and finally into the bread crumb mixture. Make sure all sides are evenly coated. Place the coated sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the zucchini fries are golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even browning.
- Make the creamy BBQ sauce: While the fries bake, mix the BBQ sauce and mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve: Remove the zucchini fries from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with the creamy BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
While the creamy BBQ sauce is a delicious match for these zucchini fries, don’t hesitate to experiment with other dips! Try a spicy sriracha mayo (mix ½ cup mayo with 1-2 tsp sriracha) or a tangy ranch dressing for a cool contrast. For a lighter option, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the fries adds a zesty kick.
How to Serve These Crispy Bites
These zucchini fries make a fantastic appetizer or snack, but they can also shine as a side dish. Pair them with grilled chicken, burgers, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve them alongside sweet potato fries for a colorful, crispy duo!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. For best results, enjoy them fresh!
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix. For a gluten-free version, swap the flour for almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also try this recipe with sweet potato sticks or eggplant slices for a different veggie twist.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep the zucchini sticks and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If you’re short on time, skip the homemade sauce and use your favorite store-bought dip instead. These small tweaks can make this recipe even quicker to whip up!
Crispy Zucchini Fries with Creamy BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 medium zucchini, (cut into skinny sticks)
Creamy BBQ Sauce
- ½ cup BBQ Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, beat egg with a fork until well combined.
- In another bowl add the flour.
- In a third bowl fill with bread crumbs. Toss the breadcrumbs with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Then set aside.
- Dip the zucchini sticks into the flour (shake off the extra flour) then dip it in the beaten egg, and then into the bread crumb mixture. Make sure all sides get coated well. Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake at 425° for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- To make the creamy BBQ Sauce, mix BBQ Sauce and Mayo.