Cheesy Cajun Zucchini Sticks

Featured in: Retro American Dishes

Transform fresh zucchini into crispy, cheesy sticks coated in bold Cajun seasoning and Parmesan. These oven-baked bites deliver a satisfying crunch and a balance of spicy and savory flavor. Easy to prepare in under 35 minutes, they're ideal paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option, or swap Parmesan and eggs for vegan-friendly alternatives. This snack works beautifully as an appetizer or side, and garnishing with fresh parsley adds extra color and freshness to every serving.

Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:42:00 GMT
Crispy Cajun zucchini sticks golden-brown, perfect for dipping in ranch sauce. Save It
Crispy Cajun zucchini sticks golden-brown, perfect for dipping in ranch sauce. | zetluna.com

Crispy, cheesy zucchini sticks tossed with bold Cajun spices, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

The first time I made these zucchini sticks my friends could not believe they were baked and not fried. They vanished within minutes, and the bold Cajun flavor made them truly stand out at our potluck.

Ingredients

  • Vegetables: 3 medium zucchinis cut into sticks
  • Breading: 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (or regular, if not gluten-free), 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Binding: 2 large eggs
  • For serving (optional): 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheet:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
Cut Zucchini:
Slice zucchinis into even sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
Prepare Egg Mixture:
Whisk eggs in shallow bowl until well combined.
Make Coating:
In another bowl combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread Zucchini Sticks:
Dip each stick into egg then roll in cheese-breadcrumb mixture pressing gently to coat.
Arrange and Bake:
Place coated zucchini on prepared sheet in single layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes flipping halfway until golden and crisp.
Garnish and Serve:
Top with chopped parsley and serve warm with dipping sauce of choice.
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These zucchini sticks are a family favorite especially for movie night and even my picky niece requests them every time she visits.

Required Tools

Baking sheet, parchment paper, two shallow bowls, knife and cutting board, oven

Allergen Information

Contains eggs and milk (Parmesan cheese). Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free recipe. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 170, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 10 g per serving

Savory Cheesy Cajun Zucchini Sticks, a crunchy snack bursting with flavor. Save It
Savory Cheesy Cajun Zucchini Sticks, a crunchy snack bursting with flavor. | zetluna.com

These cheesy Cajun zucchini sticks will become your go-to for party platters and weeknight snacking alike. Try them warm right out of the oven for best texture and flavor.

Common Questions About Recipes

How can I make these sticks gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check packages for hidden gluten before preparing.

Can I make this vegan?

Replace Parmesan with dairy-free cheese and use a flaxseed egg instead of regular eggs for binding.

What dipping sauce pairs best?

Ranch or blue cheese dressing are popular choices, but spicy mayonnaise or yogurt dip also work well.

How do I achieve extra crispiness?

Broil the sticks for 2–3 minutes after baking to reach a crunchier texture and golden finish.

Can I adjust the seasoning level?

Increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning to control the heat and flavor intensity to your taste.

Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, coat the zucchini in advance and bake when ready. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Cheesy Cajun Zucchini Sticks

Crispy zucchini sticks with Cajun spice, Parmesan, and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a tasty, crunchy bite.

Prep Time
15 mins
Time to Cook
20 mins
Overall Time
35 mins
Authored by Clara

Recipe Type Retro American Dishes

Skill Level Required Easy

Cuisine Type American

Recipe Output 4 Number of Portions

Dietary Needs Veggie-Friendly, Free of Gluten

The Ingredients You'll Need

Vegetables

01 3 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks (approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick)

Breading

01 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
02 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
03 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
04 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Binding

01 2 large eggs

For serving (optional)

01 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
02 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheet: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.

Step 02

Slice Zucchini: Trim ends and cut each zucchini into sticks roughly 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick for uniform cooking.

Step 03

Combine Eggs: Crack eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk until thoroughly blended.

Step 04

Mix Breadcrumbs and Cheese: In a separate shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 05

Coat Zucchini Sticks: Dip each zucchini stick into the egg mixture, then roll in the cheese-breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to adhere.

Step 06

Arrange for Baking: Place coated zucchini sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, spaced for even cooking.

Step 07

Bake Sticks: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping each stick halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

Step 08

Finishing Touches: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm, accompanied by your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or nonstick spray
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Two shallow bowls
  • Oven

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify allergens and consult an expert if needed.
  • Contains eggs and dairy (Parmesan cheese).
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free compliance.
  • Verify store-bought items for hidden allergens.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Keep in mind these details are for general guidance and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Caloric Content: 170
  • Fats: 9 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Proteins: 10 grams