Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of crispy cheese baking in the oven can make even the simplest of meals feel extraordinary. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Baked Zucchini and Cheese, a fantastic way to turn fresh vegetables into a satisfying dish that everyone will love! With just 15 minutes of prep time, this low-calorie delight (around 250 calories per serving) is not only quick but also a versatile side or light main course. Picture creamy mozzarella and nutty Parmesan teaming up to blanket tender zucchini, all capped off with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. It’s comfort food reimagined for the health-conscious home chef! Are you ready to discover a delicious twist on your veggie game? Let’s dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe! Why is Baked Zucchini and Cheese So Great? Simplicity at Its Best: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a dish that’s easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The melting mozzarella and nutty Parmesan combine beautifully, while the crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful texture. Healthy Comfort Food: At approximately 250 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings while enjoying fresh ingredients. Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or toss it in a warm salad; the possibilities are endless! Crowd-Pleaser: This baked delight will impress friends and family, making it a go-to for gatherings or casual dinners. Discover more comforting recipes like Cheesy Baked Ziti or Oven Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon to complete your meal! Baked Zucchini and Cheese Ingredients • Get ready to create this deliciously crunchy delight! For the Zucchini Large Zucchinis – Provides a tender, mild base; if you’re in the mood for a change, eggplant or yellow squash can step in beautifully. For the Cheese Mixture Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into gooey layers, forming the heart of the dish; try cheddar for a sharper flavor if you wish. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty kick and helps create a golden-brown finish. For the Crunchy Topping Breadcrumbs – Provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender zucchini. For the Seasoning Olive Oil – Helps spices adhere and encourages browning for a crispy texture. Garlic Powder – Infuses warm, savory notes without the risk of burning, unlike fresh garlic. Dried Oregano – Adds herbal brightness that perfectly complements the cheese and zucchini. Salt – Enhances flavor overall. Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat to balance the dish. For the Finishing Touch Fresh Parsley – Serves as a colorful garnish for a fresh finish, making your dish look as good as it tastes! Dive into this delightful recipe, and enjoy the adventure of making Baked Zucchini and Cheese! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Zucchini and Cheese Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial for ensuring your Baked Zucchini and Cheese comes out perfectly crispy on the bottom and easy to clean up afterward. Step 2: Mix Oil and Spices In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. The oil will help the spices adhere to the zucchini, promoting flavor throughout. Set this bowl aside as you’ll need it to coat your zucchini slices, ensuring they absorb all those delicious flavors. Step 3: Coat the Zucchini Use a sharp knife to slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Toss the zucchini slices in the oil and spice mixture until they are fully coated, making sure to cover every piece evenly. This step enhances the taste of your Baked Zucchini and Cheese, prepping your veggies for that cheesy layer to come. Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture In a separate mixing bowl, combine shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. Mix them together until the cheeses and breadcrumbs are evenly distributed. This will create a lovely, crunchy topping for your baked zucchini, adding a delicious cheesy richness and texture as it bakes. Step 5: Bread the Zucchini Slices Dip each zucchini slice into the cheese-breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a thorough coating. This step is key for achieving that delightful crunchy topping that complements the tender zucchini. Make sure to cover each slice completely for the best flavor and texture in your Baked Zucchini and Cheese. Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet Lay the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even baking, promoting a golden-brown finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and set the timer for 20-25 minutes, keeping an eye on them as they cook. Step 7: Bake Until Golden Bake the zucchini for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are browned and the cheese is melted, creating a beautiful contrast against the zucchini. The aroma of baked cheese will fill your kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table! Step 8: Garnish and Serve Once baked to perfection, remove the zucchini from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Now your Baked Zucchini and Cheese is ready to be served as a delightful side dish or a light main course, impressing your family and friends with its irresistible cheesy goodness! Make Ahead Options These Baked Zucchini and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and coat the zucchini up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them fresh in the refrigerator. To do this, simply prepare the zucchini slices and toss them in the oil and spice mixture, then dip them in the cheese-breadcrumb mixture before arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent the zucchini from drying out and continue to maintain their delightful texture. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed for hot, cheesy perfection that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made! Expert Tips for Baked Zucchini and Cheese • Slice Evenly: Make sure all zucchini slices are the same thickness (about 1/4-inch) to ensure even cooking and perfect texture. • Healthier Option: For a lighter touch, consider spraying the zucchini with olive oil instead of drizzling to control the amount of oil used. • Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, coat your zucchini slices up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them before baking for a quick meal fix. • Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends like gouda or an Italian mix to elevate the flavor of your baked zucchini and cheese. • Don’t Rush Baking: Keep an eye on your zucchini in the oven; the golden-brown color is your cue for perfectly baked crispiness! • Storage Notes: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness. What to Serve with Baked Zucchini and Cheese Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the savory flavors of this cheesy, crispy dish! Grilled Chicken: Perfectly seasoned grilled chicken adds a juicy, protein-filled contrast, making your meal heartier and satisfying. Marinara Sauce: A tangy marinara provides a flavorful dipping sauce, allowing for a delightful interaction between the cheese and aromatic tomatoes. Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty quinoa salad introduces a refreshing texture, bringing brightness through fresh herbs and zesty lemon. Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and complements the cheesy richness of the zucchini perfectly. Steamed Broccoli: The tender crunch of steamed broccoli balances the meal, contributing nutritional value and a lovely pop of green. White Wine Spritzer: Sip a chilled white wine spritzer to cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience with its crisp, fruity notes. Side Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy Caesar dressing adds a touch of creaminess and crunch that pairs beautifully with the zucchini’s texture. Embrace these pairings for a well-rounded feast that’s sure to impress! Baked Zucchini and Cheese Variations Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own, turning it into a delightful creation that suits your taste! Dairy-Free Cheese: Substitute regular cheese with a dairy-free alternative to cater to lactose sensitivities without sacrificing flavor. Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the oil and spice mixture for a spicy twist that wakes up the palate. Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the breadcrumb mixture to infuse an aromatic freshness throughout the dish. Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms into the cheese mixture for added nutrition and a colorful presentation. Baked Zucchini Fries: Cut zucchini into thicker strips for a fun twist, perfect for dipping in marinara sauce. They’ll be a hit at any gathering! Nutty Variation: Substitute half of the breadcrumbs with crushed almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch that complements the cheese beautifully. Parmesan Crunch: Add more grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture to create an irresistible cheesy crust that’s even more satisfying. Seasoned Crumbs: Experiment with flavored breadcrumbs, such as Italian or garlic-herb varieties, to enhance the flavor profile of your crispy layers. Feel free to explore these variations, and don’t forget to try pairing your delightful Baked Zucchini and Cheese with something like Oven Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone! Storage Tips for Baked Zucchini and Cheese Fridge: Store leftover Baked Zucchini and Cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing for best results. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the zucchini in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To retain its crispiness, reheat the zucchini in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures the cheesy topping stays crunchy! Meal Prep: If you’re planning to make it ahead, coated zucchini slices can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, making weeknight dinners a breeze! Baked Zucchini and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I select the best zucchinis for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis with a vibrant green color. Avoid those with dark spots or a wrinkled appearance, as they may be overripe. Fresh, tender zucchinis will create the best texture in your baked dish. How should I store leftover Baked Zucchini and Cheese? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven to maintain its delicious crunch! Can I freeze Baked Zucchini and Cheese? Very! To freeze, ensure the dish is completely cool, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. What should I do if my zucchini slices are too watery? If your zucchinis seem watery, try salting them lightly and letting them sit for about 15-20 minutes before coating. The salt will draw out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding with the recipe. This will help ensure a crispier result! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Definitely! This dish is perfect for vegetarians, and you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. However, if you’re serving it to someone with a dairy allergy, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives or omitting the cheese altogether. It still retains a lovely flavor without it! Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the coated zucchini slices and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly in the fridge. This makes weeknight meals convenient while ensuring that you won’t compromise on flavor when it’s time to bake! Baked Zucchini and Cheese: A Guilt-Free Cheesy Treat Baked Zucchini and Cheese is a low-calorie cheesy delight that transforms fresh vegetables into a satisfying dish everyone will love. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: VegetarianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Zucchini2 large Zucchinis Can substitute with eggplant or yellow squashFor the Cheese Mixture1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can substitute with cheddar for a sharper flavor1/2 cup Grated Parmesan CheeseFor the Crunchy Topping1 cup BreadcrumbsFor the Seasoning2 tablespoons Olive Oil1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Dried Oregano1/2 teaspoon Salt1/4 teaspoon Black PepperFor the Finishing Touch2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnish Equipment Ovenbaking sheetmixing bowlKnife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch rounds and coat in the oil and spice mixture.In a separate bowl, mix shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.Dip each zucchini slice in the cheese-breadcrumb mixture, coating well.Arrange coated zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet.Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg NotesSlice zucchinis evenly for best cooking. You can prepare sliced zucchini in advance, up to 24 hours before baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
