This easy baked zucchini with cheese is a delicious side dish that’s both healthy and cheesy! Just slice the zucchini, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
I love how quick it is to prepare! It makes a great addition to dinner, and trust me, your family will love the cheesy goodness. Who wouldn’t want more veggies when they’re this tasty? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this dish. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash works well too. They have a similar texture and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: The sweetness of cherry tomatoes adds a nice flavor. If you don’t have them, regular tomatoes chopped into chunks can be a good substitute.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness, paired with Parmesan for a cheesy bite. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free cheese options or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond milk combined with a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor with the Garlic and Spices?
Garlic and herbs are key to adding depth to this dish. To get the most flavor out of minced garlic, make sure to sauté it briefly in olive oil before mixing it into the zucchini. This way, it will soften and release its delicious aroma.
- Heat the olive oil in a small pan over low heat and add minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine with zucchini, tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper for a well-seasoned mixture.
This technique really brings out the flavor and aroma of the garlic, enhancing the overall dish. Enjoy your cheesy baked zucchini!
Easy Baked Zucchini with Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Time Needed:
This delicious baked zucchini takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to have the oven ready to give your dish that perfect bubbly, golden crust!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped zucchinis and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until all the veggies are well coated.
3. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Take the veggie mixture and transfer it to a greased or lightly oiled baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly for even cooking!
4. Add the Cream:
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the vegetables. This creamy goodness will add richness to your dish!
5. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses generously on top of the zucchini mixture. Get ready for that cheesy melt!
6. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Also, check to make sure the zucchini is tender.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it settle and make it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
8. Serve:
Enjoy your warm, cheesy baked zucchini as a delightful side dish or a light main course. It’s packed with flavor and sure to please!
Dig in and enjoy every cheesy bite! 🌟
FAQ for Easy Baked Zucchini with Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create a great flavor combination, you can experiment with other cheeses too. Cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites can work well. Just keep in mind that melting properties may vary.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a few hours ahead by assembling it in the baking dish, then covering it and refrigerating. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or in the microwave for a quick reheat, though the oven will help maintain the cheesy texture better.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this recipe with other veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly!
