Grilled Zucchini Parmesan Stacks
If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and healthy summer dish, these Grilled Zucchini Parmesan Stacks are a must-try!
They feature tender, smoky grilled zucchini rounds layered with tangy marinara sauce, melty mozzarella, and crispy Parmesan—all in a bite-sized, stackable form. These make a perfect appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, they’re easy, delicious, and low-carb. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or need a keto-friendly dish, these zucchini stacks deliver big flavor in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Healthy & Low-Carb – A nutritious, keto-friendly, and gluten-free option.
✔ Easy to Make – Just grill, layer, and bake until golden!
✔ Perfect for Summer – Uses fresh zucchini, making it a great seasonal recipe.
✔ Crispy, Cheesy & Flavorful – A delicious mix of textures and flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into ¼-inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
- Slice the zucchinis into ¼-inch thick rounds.
- Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Grill the Zucchini
- Place zucchini rounds directly on the grill.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and they become slightly tender.
- Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Stacks
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, place half of the grilled zucchini rounds.
- Add ½ teaspoon marinara sauce to each round, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Place another zucchini round over the cheese, add more marinara, and top with Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispy, golden cheese topping.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while warm and gooey!
Expert Tips for the Recipe
✅ Don’t Over-Grill – Zucchini softens quickly, so grill just enough to get those charred marks.
✅ Use Fresh Mozzarella – For the best melt and texture, opt for fresh shredded mozzarella.
✅ Customize It – Try adding ricotta or goat cheese for a richer flavor.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Grill zucchini in advance and assemble stacks when ready to bake!
Grilled Zucchini Parmesan Stacks
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat & season – Heat grill to 375-400°F, brush zucchini rounds with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Grill – Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
- Assemble stacks – Place half the zucchini on a baking sheet, add marinara & mozzarella, then top with another zucchini slice, more marinara, and Parmesan.
- Bake – Cook at 400°F for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Garnish & serve – Sprinkle with basil and red pepper flakes.