Crispy Baked Zucchini Roll-Ups

These crispy baked zucchini roll-ups are a delicious low-carb appetizer, snack, or light meal. Thin zucchini slices are filled with a cheesy herb mixture, rolled up, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and baked until golden and crispy.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

• 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Zucchini

• 3 medium zucchini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Crispy Coating

• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Cooking spray

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Slice zucchini lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or vegetable peeler.
4. Place slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt.
5. Let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture, then pat dry.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine:
   • Cream cheese
   • Mozzarella cheese
   • Parmesan cheese
   • Parsley
   • Garlic powder
   • Italian seasoning
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups

1. Spread about 1 tablespoon of filling on one end of each zucchini strip.
2. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down.
3. Brush lightly with olive oil.

Step 4: Add the Crispy Coating

1. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning in a shallow bowl.
2. Roll each zucchini roll-up in the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Lightly spray with cooking spray.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
2. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm marinara sauce.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish.
• Add to a Mediterranean appetizer platter.
• Enjoy as a healthy party snack.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 230
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Sodium: 480mg

Nut Information

Nut-Free: Yes, when prepared with standard ingredients listed above.

Allergen Information

Contains:

• Dairy (cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan)
• Wheat/Gluten (breadcrumbs)

Does Not Contain:

• Peanuts
• Tree Nuts
• Soy (unless present in specific cheese brands)

To Make Gluten-Free

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Tips for Success

• Slice zucchini evenly for easier rolling.
• Pat zucchini dry to prevent sogginess.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Don’t overfill the rolls or they may unravel during baking.

Q&A

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze them?

Yes. Freeze unbaked roll-ups for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes.

What other fillings can I use?

Try:

• Spinach and feta
• Ricotta and herbs
• Cooked chicken and mozzarella
• Sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese

How do I keep them crispy?

Bake on a wire rack over the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.

Can I make them keto?

Yes. Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb version.