Crispy on top, tender in the middle, and packed with gooey melted plant-based cheese, these Vegan Baked Cheesy Zucchini Stacks are bite-sized perfection that will disappear in minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
100% Plant-Based: Dairy-free, low-carb, and naturally gluten-free.
Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple fresh produce and pantry staples.
Perfect Finger Food: Ideal as a healthy appetizer, side dish, or party snack.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Baking Sheet & Parchment Paper: Ensures the bottom slices stay crisp and clean up is quick.
Sharp Knife or Mandoline: For slicing evenly-thick zucchini rounds.
Ingredients
3 medium Zucchini (sliced into uniform 1/4-inch rounds)
1 1/2 cups Vegan shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (shredded finely)
1/2 cup Vegan Parmesan (grated)
1 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp Garlic powder
1 tsp Dried Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp Nutritional yeast (optional, for extra cheesy depth)
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season Zucchini: Arrange half of the zucchini slices on the baking sheet to form the base rounds. Lightly brush with olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff with Cheese: Pile a generous mound of vegan shredded mozzarella onto each base slice.
4. Stack & Top: Cap each with a second zucchini slice. Brush the top slice with a bit of olive oil, then top generously with grated vegan Parmesan and nutritional yeast for a golden crust.
5. Bake & Broil: Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted. Switch to broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the top cheese layer turns crispy and bubbly golden-brown.
6. Serve: Let cool for 3 to 5 minutes to set the cheese, then serve warm!
Chef’s Tips
Pat Dry: Dab the zucchini slices with a paper towel after cutting to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness.
Finely Shredded: Fine-shredded vegan cheese melts smoother and sticks to the stacks much better than thick shreds.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving / 4 Servings Yield)
Servings: 4
Calories: ~160 kcal
Protein: 5g
Net Carbs: 4g
Fat: 11g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned on top.