This cheesy baked zucchini dish is a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables! Fresh zucchini is topped with melted cheese and baked until golden brown. It’s simple and delicious!
I love making this recipe as a side dish. It’s a sneaky way to add veggies to my meal while keeping things cheesy! Who doesn’t love cheese, right? 🧀😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Fresh, medium-sized zucchinis give the best flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash or even eggplant for a different texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a pop of sweetness and color. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, chopped regular tomatoes will work too. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary based on their size.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting, while Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. You can switch mozzarella for any melty cheese like provolone or Gouda. For vegan options, try dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: For creaminess, I love sour cream, but Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative. You can also try a cashew cream for a dairy-free twist. Just blend soaked cashews with a bit of water.
How Do I Get the Cheese Perfectly Golden Brown?
Achieving a beautifully golden cheese topping is all about timing and temperature! Here are some simple tips:
- Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect melt and crispiness.
- Make sure to bake it uncovered to allow the cheese to brown nicely.
- If the cheese isn’t browning enough, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Letting the dish rest a bit after baking makes it easier to serve and enhances the flavors. Enjoy this cheesy treat!
Cheesy Baked Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 3 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and another 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying dish to serve up at any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking our cheesy goodness!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, red chili flakes (if you like a little heat), and some salt and pepper. Toss everything well until the veggies are nicely coated with the seasonings.
3. Arrange in a Baking Dish:
Transfer the seasoned vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish or casserole. Make sure to spread it evenly for a nice cook!
4. Mix the Cheese Sauce:
In a separate bowl, stir together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This creamy mixture will add a delicious layer of flavor!
5. Combine Layers:
Spread the prepared cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini and tomatoes in the baking dish. Make it nice and generous!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. It’s done when the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the veggies are tender.
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help everything settle and makes serving easier!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Give your baked zucchini a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and healthy side dish with your favorite main course. It’s sure to be a hit!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Cheesy Baked Zucchini
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star, you can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Just ensure that any added veggies are chopped to a similar size for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesy baked zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and cheese mixture ahead of time and assemble it in the baking dish. Just cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What Can I Serve with Cheesy Baked Zucchini?
This cheesy dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a veggie platter.
