How To Broil Zucchini And Squash

You can broil zucchini and squash in the oven for a quick, healthy side dish that’s ready in under 15 minutes.
 
Broiling zucchini and squash gives them a nice charred flavor with tender insides, and it’s one of the easiest ways to cook summer produce.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to broil zucchini and squash without turning them into mush, the trick is high heat, a short cooking time, and a little bit of oil.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through how to broil zucchini and squash step by step, plus seasoning ideas and tips to get that perfect golden edge every time.
 
Let’s get cooking.
 

How to Broil Zucchini and Squash Perfectly

Learning how to broil zucchini and squash comes down to a few simple rules.
 
Here’s what makes it work:
 

1. Slice Them Evenly

The first step in how to broil zucchini and squash is cutting them into uniform pieces.
 
Slice zucchini and squash into rounds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
 
Even slices mean even cooking, so nothing burns on one end while staying raw on the other.
 
If you’re broiling zucchini and squash as spears, cut them lengthwise into quarters instead.
 

2. Pat Them Dry

Zucchini and squash hold a lot of water, and moisture is the enemy of browning.
 
After slicing, lay the pieces on a paper towel and pat the tops dry.
 
This small step makes a big difference when you broil zucchini and squash because dry surfaces char instead of steam.
 

3. Toss With Oil and Seasoning

Brush or toss your zucchini and squash with a tablespoon or two of olive oil.
 
Oil helps them brown and keeps them from sticking to the pan.
 
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or dried herbs like oregano and thyme.
 
A sprinkle of parmesan works wonders too if you want to broil zucchini and squash with a crispy topping.
 

4. Preheat the Broiler and Use the Right Rack

Set your oven to broil and let it heat for at least 5 minutes.
 
Place the rack about 4 to 6 inches from the heating element.
 
Too close and your zucchini and squash will burn before they cook through.
 
Too far and you’ll lose that signature broiled char.
 

5. Broil for 5 to 10 Minutes

Arrange the zucchini and squash in a single layer on a sheet pan or broiler-safe dish.
 
Broil for 5 to 7 minutes, then flip and broil another 3 to 5 minutes.
 
Watch closely, because broiling zucchini and squash can go from golden to burnt fast.
 
You’ll know they’re done when the edges are browned and the centers are fork-tender.
 

Best Seasonings for Broiled Zucchini and Squash

How you season your zucchini and squash can completely change the flavor, and that’s the fun part.
 
Here are some winning combos:
 

1. Classic Garlic and Herb

Toss your zucchini and squash with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
 
It’s simple and lets the natural flavor of the squash shine through.
 

2. Italian Style

Add oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes before you broil zucchini and squash.
 
Finish with grated parmesan and a squeeze of lemon right after they come out of the oven.
 

3. Smoky Paprika and Cumin

For a warmer, smokier take, season zucchini and squash with smoked paprika, cumin, and a little chili powder.
 
This pairs beautifully with grilled meats and tacos.
 

4. Balsamic Glaze

Drizzle balsamic glaze over broiled zucchini and squash just before serving.
 
The sweetness balances the charred edges perfectly.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Broil Zucchini and Squash

Even though broiling zucchini and squash is simple, a few missteps can ruin the dish.
 
Here’s what to watch out for:
 

1. Overcrowding the Pan

If you pile zucchini and squash on top of each other, they’ll steam instead of broil.
 
Use a large sheet pan and spread them in a single layer.
 
Work in batches if you have to.
 

2. Skipping the Oil

Oil isn’t optional when you broil zucchini and squash.
 
Without it, they dry out and stick to the pan.
 
A light, even coat is all you need.
 

3. Walking Away From the Oven

Broiling is fast and unforgiving.
 
Stay nearby and check your zucchini and squash every couple of minutes.
 
A dish that looks perfect at minute five can be black at minute seven.
 

4. Salting Too Early

Salt draws out moisture, so if you salt zucchini and squash too far ahead, they’ll release water and steam instead of brown.
 
Season right before they go under the broiler.
 

So, How Do You Broil Zucchini and Squash?

You broil zucchini and squash by slicing them evenly, patting them dry, coating them in oil and seasoning, and cooking them under high heat for just 5 to 10 minutes.
 
It’s one of the fastest ways to turn summer squash into a flavorful side dish with crispy, golden edges.
 
Avoid overcrowding the pan, skip the early salt, and keep an eye on them the whole time.
 
Once you know how to broil zucchini and squash, you’ll be making this recipe all season long.