Keto Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries

My sister rolls her eyes every time I mention zucchini, but these fries made her actually ask for seconds. The Parmesan gets all golden and nutty in the oven, and that almond flour creates this irresistible crunch that fools everyone into thinking they are the real deal.

Last summer I made a triple batch for a backyard BBQ and watched skeptics turn into believers. By the time I turned around with the second tray, the first one had completely vanished, and my neighbor was actually scraping crumbs off the serving platter.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini: Choose firm ones with smooth skin, about 400 g total, and cut them into uniform fry shapes
• 1 cup grated Parmesan: The real stuff, freshly grated, makes all the difference in that cheesy crunch
• 1/2 cup almond flour: Creates the perfect crispy coating without any wheat or carbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Rounds out all the flavors with a subtle savory note
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme bring that classic fry seasoning vibe
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gorgeous golden color and a hint of smoky depth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the zucchini
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough warmth to keep things interesting
• 2 large eggs: The glue that makes everything stick together beautifully

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 220°C with the rack in the middle position and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prep your zucchini:

Cut into fry shapes about 1 cm thick and pat them really dry with paper towels.

Set up your dipping station:

Beat the eggs in one bowl and mix all the coating ingredients together in another.

Coat each fry:

Dip into egg first, then press into the Parmesan mixture until fully covered.

Arrange and bake:

Place fries in a single layer without touching and bake for 22 to 25 minutes.

Flip halfway through:

Use tongs to turn each fry carefully for even browning on both sides.

Finish hot:

Serve immediately while they are at their crispest, with your favorite keto dip on the side.

Save

My husband who claims to hate zucchini ate half the tray straight from the oven while pretending to taste test for seasoning. That is when I knew these were a keeper for life.

Getting Maximum Crispiness

Turn on the broiler for the last minute or two, but stand right there watching like a hawk. The difference between perfectly golden and burnt is literally seconds, and the broiler has zero patience.

Making Ahead

You can cut and coat the fries up to an hour before baking, but keep them refrigerated until the oven is ready. Letting them sit at room temperature makes the zucchini release water and ruins the crunch.

Perfect Pairings

These fries shine alongside a juicy burger or steak, but they also hold their own as a party appetizer.

• Sugar free marinara warmed up on the stove
• Homemade garlic aioli with mayo and minced garlic
• Ranch dressing made with sour cream and herbs

Save

Warm, salty, and satisfyingly crunchy, these fries might just become your new favorite way to use up all that summer zucchini.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make zucchini fries extra crispy?

Pat the zucchini thoroughly with paper towels before coating to remove excess moisture. Arrange fries in a single layer without touching, and consider broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for additional crispiness.

→ Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, but reduce the amount to 1/4 cup since coconut flour absorbs more moisture than almond flour. This substitution maintains the low-carb profile while accommodating different pantry staples.

→ What dipping sauces work best?

Sugar-free marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli complement the Parmesan coating beautifully. Ensure any pre-made sauces align with your dietary requirements.

→ How should I store leftovers?

These fries are best enjoyed fresh, as they can become soggy when refrigerated. If you have leftovers, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness rather than microwaving.

→ What main dishes pair well with these fries?

They're excellent alongside grilled burgers, steak, roasted chicken, or as part of a keto appetizer spread. The Italian seasoning makes them particularly compatible with Mediterranean-inspired mains.

→ Why do I need to cut zucchini into 1cm thick sticks?

This thickness ensures the fries cook through evenly while maintaining structural integrity. Thinner cuts may become too crispy or burn, while thicker pieces might not cook completely in the center.