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Crispy Baked Cheddar Zucchini Fries with Ranch Dip Recipe


  • Author: cooktrove
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Baked Cheddar Zucchini Fries are a deliciously crispy and cheesy alternative to traditional fries, paired with a creamy ranch dip. Perfect for game day or a cozy snack, they offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 pound)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added brightness)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the fries will bake evenly and become crispy.
  2. While the oven is preheating, wash and dry the zucchinis, then slice them into sticks about 1/4 inch thick. This uniformity helps them cook evenly. Avoid cutting them too thick, as they might not cook through.
  3. Set up a breading station: In one bowl, place the flour and season it with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Take a zucchini stick, dip it into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then into the eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process with all zucchini sticks.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded zucchini fries in a single layer, leaving space between them for air circulation.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They are ready when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning!
  7. While the fries are baking, prepare the ranch dip. In a bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  8. Once the fries are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve warm with the ranch dip on the side for an irresistible pairing.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 500 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure the zucchini sticks are well-coated but not overly wet before breading. For the best results, use a wire rack set over your baking sheet instead of just a sheet pan. Experiment with seasonings in your breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.