Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked zucchini and cheese dish is an easy and irresistible comfort food that everyone will enjoy. The zucchini slices are perfectly tender and absorb the rich flavors of the garlic, olive oil, and melted cheese. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan creates a creamy, savory base that pairs perfectly with the fresh, mild zucchini. Topped with golden, crispy breadcrumbs, this dish offers a delightful contrast in texture. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a light vegetarian meal, this baked zucchini will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchini, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Cheese and Topping

• 120 grams cheddar cheese, shredded
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
• 100 grams breadcrumbs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
3. Season the zucchini: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
4. Arrange the zucchini: Lay the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
5. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini.
6. Top with breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer, ensuring an even coating.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy on top.
8. Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano on top before baking.
• Use different cheeses: Swap out the cheddar or Parmesan with mozzarella, Gruyère, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat in this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the zucchini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the topping crisps up again.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini and cheese layer ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the breadcrumb topping and cook as directed.

Can I freeze baked zucchini and cheese?

It’s not ideal to freeze this dish due to the zucchini’s high moisture content, which may make it soggy when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I use zucchini ribbons instead of slices?

Yes, you can use zucchini ribbons made with a vegetable peeler for a different presentation, but the cooking time may vary slightly.

Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I know when the zucchini is cooked properly?

The zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be fully melted and bubbly with a golden crust on top.

Can I add meat to this dish?

You can add cooked ground beef, sausage for a meaty variation, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or steak.

How do I make the topping extra crispy?

For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the dish for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as yellow squash, eggplant, or even tomatoes for a different flavor combination.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can reduce the amount of cheese and breadcrumbs or use a lower-fat cheese for a lighter version of this dish.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this baked zucchini and cheese dish is vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals.

Conclusion

Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese is the perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion. With tender zucchini, flavorful cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish is packed with comforting flavors and textures. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful addition to a holiday spread, this baked zucchini will become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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