Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake: A Delicious Summer Side Dish
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake: A Delicious Summer Side Dish
Looking for a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy fresh zucchini? This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is the perfect solution! Packed with tender zucchini, gooey cheese, and a crispy golden top, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
If you love zucchini, you might also enjoy our Garden Zucchini Casserole or our Classic Old Fashioned Zucchini Bread.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Thinly slice the zucchinis into rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl.
- Season the Zucchini: Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil and add minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Layer the Bake: Arrange the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
- Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheeses to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Zucchini: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, firm zucchinis. Avoid overly large zucchinis as they can be watery.
- Add a Crunch: For extra crunch, you can add a handful of crushed crackers or nuts to the breadcrumb topping.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a unique twist.
FAQ
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash works well in this recipe and can be used as a substitute or in combination with zucchini.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked dish for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
For more delicious summer recipes, check out our Easy Baked Zucchini Casserole or our Cheesy Baked Zucchini and Corn Casserole.
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake: A Delicious Summer Side Dish
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Thinly slice the zucchinis into rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil and add minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheeses to create a crispy topping.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
