Looking for a quick and delicious way to enjoy zucchini? This Baked Zucchini and Cheese recipe is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. With tender zucchini rounds coated in a medley of melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and aromatic spices, this dish strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, grilled meats, or as a standalone snack, this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the Zucchini: Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil and add the minced garlic. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss well to ensure all slices are evenly coated.
- Arrange in the Baking Dish: Lay the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish or sheet pan, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the zucchini slices. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for a crunchy texture.
- Bake the Zucchini: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden crust, switch to the broil setting for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the zucchini from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Conclusion:
This Baked Zucchini and Cheese recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies into your meals or simply craving something cheesy and delicious, this recipe has you covered. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a regular in your cooking repertoire. Give it a try today!
Cheesy Baked Zucchini: A Simple and Irresistible Side Dish
This Cheesy Baked Zucchini is a flavorfuland easy side dish that combines tender zucchini with melted mozzarella,Parmesan, and savory herbs. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a quick way toelevate your veggie game!
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the Zucchini: Drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil and add the minced garlic. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss well to ensure all slices are evenly coated.
- Arrange in the Baking Dish: Lay the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish or sheet pan, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the zucchini slices. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for a crunchy texture.
- Bake the Zucchini: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden crust, switch to the broil setting for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the zucchini from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.