Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times to get creative in the kitchen, and zucchini is one of my go-to ingredients for adding a fresh, light touch to the table.
There’s something about sneaking in a veggie like zucchini that balances out the richness of other Thanksgiving dishes—especially when it’s whipped up in ways that feel a little different from the usual casseroles and heavy sides.
Plus, this veggie is a totally healthy food too and you need a little bit of healthy food for Thanksgiving, right?
This year, I’ve been working on some quick and easy Thanksgiving zucchini recipes that have become new family favorites.
I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that feels homemade but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen?
If you’re as big of a zucchini fan as I am, you’ll want to check out my other post on zucchini recipes for more ideas to keep this versatile veggie in your meal plans all year round.
Zucchini Recipes for Thanksgiving
Bring a fresh twist to your Thanksgiving spread with zucchini recipes that are as easy as they are delicious.
From crispy baked zucchini to hearty gratins, these dishes add a veggie boost to the holiday table without feeling like “just a side.”
Perfect for balancing out all those rich holiday flavors, these zucchini recipes are a simple way to bring something light and fresh to the feast!
1. Easy Roasted Carrots and Zucchini
This one’s a breeze and a perfect side dish to any Thanksgiving spread.
Slice up some carrots and zucchini into even rounds, then toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried thyme.
Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
The carrots get slightly caramelized while the zucchini turns tender—a simple dish with a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with turkey.
2. Cheesy Zucchini Au Gratin
For a creamy, cheesy delight, layer thinly sliced zucchini in a baking dish with shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese.
In a small pot, melt butter, add some garlic, and pour in a little heavy cream.
Pour this over the zucchini, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden.
3. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
Slice zucchini into rounds, toss with olive oil, minced garlic, and plenty of grated Parmesan.
Lay them on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for about 15 minutes, then broil for a couple of minutes until they’re golden and crispy on top.
You end up with the perfect mix of savory garlic and cheesy goodness with just the right amount of crunch!
4. Baked Zucchini Casserole
For this cozy casserole, layer sliced zucchini with a mixture of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella between the layers, then top with breadcrumbs for a bit of crunch.
Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, and you’ve got a dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and cheesy without being heavy.
5. Sauteed Zucchini in Lemon Garlic Butter
This dish is so simple, but it’s always a hit.
Melt a bit of butter in a pan, add minced garlic, and let it cook until fragrant.
Then toss in sliced zucchini and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still crisp, then season with salt and pepper.
The lemon and garlic bring out the zucchini’s natural flavor, making this a great, fresh side.
7. Roasted Zucchini With Feta
This one’s a favorite of mine! I love the way feta adds a salty, tangy punch to the roasted zucchini.
Cut zucchini into wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Crumble some feta over the zucchini right when it comes out of the oven, along with fresh parsley or dill, and you’ve got a quick, tasty side dish.
8. Zucchini Lasagna Rolls
These are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Thinly slice zucchini lengthwise, then spread a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian herbs on each slice.
Roll them up, place them in a baking dish with a layer of marinara sauce, and top with more sauce and cheese.
Bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and melted.
9. Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
I’ve been loving these fritters as a fun appetizer.
Grate zucchini, squeeze out excess moisture, and mix it with an egg, a handful of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and your favorite spices.
Form into small patties, then air fry at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
10. Zucchini Parmesan Crisps
For these crispy treats, slice zucchini into thin rounds, dip in an egg wash, and coat with a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
Lay the rounds on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for about 10-15 minutes.
They come out crisp and flavorful, like little zucchini chips.
They’re great on their own or with a marinara dip!
11. Zucchini and Tomato Gratin
Layer zucchini and tomato slices in a baking dish, alternating them for a colorful look.
Sprinkle with Parmesan, a few breadcrumbs, and fresh basil.
Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes until the top is golden and the veggies are tender.
This gratin is light and refreshing but packed with flavor.
12. Parmesan Zucchini Potato Muffins
These muffins are a great way to use up extra zucchini and potatoes.
Grate both, mix with Parmesan, an egg, and a little flour, then spoon into muffin tins.
Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until set and golden.
They make a perfect side dish for a Thanksgiving meal.
13. Zucchini Gnocchi
For a twist on traditional gnocchi, combine grated zucchini with ricotta, a little flour, and Parmesan until a dough forms.
Roll into small balls, boil in salted water, and serve with your favorite sauce.
These light, pillowy gnocchi are a deliciously unique way to enjoy zucchini.
14. Parmesan Zucchini and Corn
I’ve made this one so many times—it’s quick and hits all the right notes!
Sauté fresh corn kernels with sliced zucchini in a little olive oil, adding salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Parmesan once the veggies are tender.
The sweet corn balances the zucchini, while the Parmesan adds that savory edge.
15. Zucchini Pickles
Pickling zucchini is a fun way to use up extras, and they’re great as a side dish.
Slice zucchini into rounds, pack them into jars with fresh dill, garlic, and a few peppercorns, then pour over a brine of vinegar, water, salt, and sugar.
Let them sit for at least a day before eating, and you’ll have tangy, crunchy pickles to enjoy.
16. Zucchini Scarpaccia
This savory Tuscan flatbread is made by mixing shredded zucchini with flour, a little olive oil, and Parmesan.
Spread it thinly on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F until crisp and golden.
It’s somewhere between a pizza and a cracker, perfect for a Thanksgiving side.
17. Sweet Corn and Zucchini Pie
This pie is so good, I could eat it every day!
Mix fresh corn kernels, sliced zucchini, eggs, and shredded cheese, then pour into a pie crust.
Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes until set and golden.
It’s light but satisfying, with the sweetness of corn complementing the mild zucchini.
18. Oven Roasted Zucchini and Squash
For a classic side, slice zucchini and yellow squash, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
It’s colorful, simple, and brings out the natural flavors of the veggies.
19. Marinated Zucchini Salad
Thinly slice zucchini into ribbons and marinate in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for about 30 minutes.
Add fresh herbs like basil or mint before serving.
This salad is bright and fresh, and the marinated zucchini takes on a deliciously soft texture.
20. Three Cheese Zucchini Quiche
This quiche is a hit at Thanksgiving.
Layer sliced zucchini with shredded mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan in a pie crust, then pour over a mix of eggs and a little milk.
Bake at 375°F for about 35-40 minutes until set.
Each bite is creamy and cheesy, with the zucchini adding a subtle freshness.
21. Zucchini and Goat Cheese Galette
This galette is a beautiful, rustic tart with layers of flavor.
Roll out a pie crust, spread a generous layer of goat cheese on the bottom, and arrange thinly sliced zucchini over the top.
Sprinkle with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper, then fold the edges of the crust over to create a free-form tart.
Bake at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden.
22. Sweet Corn Zucchini Pie
This pie combines fresh corn and zucchini in a creamy, cheesy filling that’s light yet hearty.
Mix sweet corn kernels, sliced zucchini, shredded cheese, and eggs, and pour it all into a pie crust.
Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes until the pie is golden and set.
Zucchini Bread Recipes for Thanksgiving
Zucchini bread isn’t just a summer treat! It’s a cozy, flavorful addition to Thanksgiving, especially when you add warm spices or a sprinkle of nuts.
These zucchini bread recipes will add just the right amount of sweetness and heartiness to your holiday table.
They’re perfect as a snack for hungry guests or even as a unique side for the big meal!
23. Classic Zucchini Bread
This classic zucchini bread is moist, lightly sweetened, and perfect for any time of day.
Grate fresh zucchini and mix it into a batter of flour, sugar, eggs, and a hint of cinnamon.
Pour into a loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about 50-60 minutes until golden and set.
It’s a cozy treat that showcases zucchini’s natural sweetness and moisture.
24. Green Onion and Cheddar Zucchini Bread
This savory zucchini bread combines sharp cheddar with fresh green onion for a perfect side or snack.
Stir grated zucchini, cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions into a basic quick bread batter, adding a dash of black pepper for a little kick.
Bake at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes until golden and cheesy.
It’s delicious warm and pairs well with soups or salads.
25. Banana Zucchini Bread
For a unique twist on classic banana bread, add grated zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
Mash ripe bananas and mix with shredded zucchini, a bit of cinnamon, and chocolate chips if you like.
Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes until the bread is golden brown and tender.
The banana and zucchini blend perfectly for a soft, slightly sweet loaf.
26. Vegan Lemon Zucchini Bread
This vegan lemon zucchini bread is light, bright, and full of fresh flavor.
Combine grated zucchini, lemon zest, and a plant-based milk in a batter with a touch of sugar.
Bake at 350°F for about 50 minutes, then drizzle with a lemon glaze for extra zest.
It’s refreshing and perfect as a lighter option for summer or spring.
27. Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread
This zucchini bread has the cozy flavors of a snickerdoodle cookie with cinnamon and sugar in every bite.
Stir grated zucchini into a cinnamon-spiced batter, then sprinkle the top with cinnamon sugar for a sweet, crunchy crust.
Bake at 350°F for about 50-55 minutes for a golden, slightly caramelized finish.
28. Apple Zucchini Bread
Apple and zucchini come together for a naturally sweet, moist bread that’s perfect for fall.
Grate both apple and zucchini into a batter with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes until golden and aromatic.
This bread has a subtle fruity flavor and makes a delicious Thanksgiving dessert or side.
29. Cinnamon Sugar Zucchini Bread
For a spiced and sweet treat, this cinnamon sugar zucchini bread is a winner.
Mix grated zucchini into a batter with plenty of cinnamon, and swirl a layer of cinnamon sugar in the middle and on top.
Bake at 350°F for 50-55 minutes until the top is caramelized and golden.
It’s a cozy, flavorful loaf with a touch of crunch from the cinnamon sugar topping.
30. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
This zucchini bread is a dream for peanut butter and chocolate lovers.
Add grated zucchini to a batter of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and a little sugar.
Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes, letting the chocolate melt and swirl throughout.
It’s rich, satisfying, and has a balanced sweetness that’s hard to resist!
A Fresh Thanksgiving Twist You’ll Love
Bringing zucchini to your Thanksgiving table is a great way to keep things fresh, simple, and delicious.
Whether it’s in a savory bake, a light side, or a cozy slice of zucchini bread, these recipes add just the right balance to a meal full of bold flavors.
Don’t be surprised if these dishes become holiday staples everyone looks forward to each year!
Make sure to follow me on Pinterest for more yummy dishes for your family!
