Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese is a delightful dish that brings together the natural goodness of fresh zucchini and the comforting richness of cheese. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful embrace that warms the heart and satisfies the senses. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish for a family gathering, this mouthwatering bake is sure to become a go-to favorite. With its creamy texture, aromatic garlic, and a hint of herbs, each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with delightful scents.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this dish with its minimal ingredients and straightforward step-by-step directions. It’s perfect for families, and there’s something nostalgic about baked vegetables that can take you back to simpler times.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about this Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that looks and tastes gourmet. The prep is quick, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, this dish is a crowd-pleaser! Creamy cheeses complement the fresh, juicy zucchini, while the baked topping creates a crispy finish that enhances each mouthful. It’s not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize the spices and seasonings to suit your family’s taste.

Ingredients

To make this irresistible Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced: These vibrant green veggies are juicy and tender, forming the essential base of the dish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: This cheese adds a melty, creamy texture and binds the layers together beautifully.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan: Sharp and nutty, Parmesan brings a savory depth that elevates the dish.
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: Offers a rich, creamy consistency, making every bite utterly satisfying.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic unleashes an aromatic essence that enhances the entire bake.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the cheese mixture stays together perfectly.
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Infuses a warm, herby flavor that complements the zucchinis.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Optional: 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: For those who enjoy a bit of crunch on top, adding breadcrumbs provides a delightful contrast in texture.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat: If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by lightly greasing your baking dish—a 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.

2. Prepare the cheese mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended, creating a creamy and aromatic cheese filling.

3. Layer the zucchini and cheese mixture. In the greased baking dish, start layering with the thin zucchini slices. Follow this with a generous layer of the cheese mixture. Continue alternating layers, ensuring you finish with a layer of cheese on top for a beautifully golden result.

4. Add the finishing touches. If you opted for breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top layer of cheese. This will create a crispy, golden crust as it bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until you see the cheese bubbling and the top is golden brown. If you like an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

5. Cool and serve. Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the layers settle, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for a touch of freshness and color.

Tips & Tricks

• Choosing Zucchini: Look for firm, glossy zucchinis without blemishes or soft spots to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Avoiding Watery Dish: If you’re concerned about excess moisture in the zucchinis, you can sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel before layering.
• Herb Options: Get creative with herbs! Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley can add a lovely freshness and depth to your dish.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just increase baking time by about 10 minutes if it goes into the oven cold.
• Add Protein: If you want to make this a heartier meal, feel free to include cooked ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein mix.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese is wonderfully versatile and can be served on its own or as a side dish. Pair it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For something more substantial, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or baked fish. This dish also goes well with crusty bread, perfect for scooping up any cheesy goodness left on the plate.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe fits the bill beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese comes in at approximately 220 calories, making it a moderately rich addition to your meal. Each serving provides a hearty dose of protein thanks to the cheese and egg, as well as essential vitamins and minerals from the zucchini. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet, paired with lean proteins and whole grains for a full meal experience.

Storing Tips & Variations

Storing: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can also freeze portions of the baked dish. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm or use a microwave for a quicker option.

Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, like feta or cheddar, for unique flavor profiles. For a more substantial meal, add layers of sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers.

Conclusion

Now that you have the delicious recipe for Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese, it’s time to give it a try! This dish is not only easy and quick to prepare, but it’s also guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Once you make it, don’t forget to share your experience and pictures—your friends and family will thank you for introducing them to this comforting classic!

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, feel free to add in layers of eggplant, bell peppers, or even thinly sliced tomatoes for variety.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether for a delightful cheese crust that’s just as satisfying.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the cheeses with plant-based cheese alternatives and the egg with a flaxseed meal or aquafaba mixture to bind the ingredients.

4. How can I enhance the flavor further?
Consider adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the layers for an extra burst of flavor. Fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, also work wonderfully.

5. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well over a few days, making it an ideal option for meal prepping. Just reheat as needed, and enjoy the convenience of a wholesome home-cooked meal.

Print Recipe

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese

A delightful and easy dish combining fresh zucchini with creamy cheeses, perfect for quick dinners or as a side for gatherings.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time35 minutes mins

Total Time50 minutes mins

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Baked Dish, Cheese, comfort food, Vegetarian, Zucchini

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 220kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchinis Thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella Adds a melty, creamy texture
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Brings a savory depth
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese Offers a rich, creamy consistency
• 2 cloves garlic Minced
• 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning Infuses a warm, herby flavor
• Salt and black pepper To taste

Optional Ingredients

• 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs For added crunch on top
• Red pepper flakes Optional for heat

Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, egg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Layering

• In the greased dish, layer the zucchini slices topped with the cheese mixture. Repeat until all zucchini and cheese are layered, finishing with cheese on top.
• If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top layer of cheese.

Baking

• Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the cheese bubbles and the top is golden brown. Broil for an extra 1-2 minutes for a crispier top.

Serving

• Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Choose firm zucchinis without blemishes. To avoid excess moisture, salt the zucchini and let sit for 15 minutes before patting dry. You can add layers of other vegetables for variety and customize with different cheeses or proteins.