This Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini is a tasty treat with a crunchy topping and cheesy goodness! Perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack, it’s super simple to whip up.
Every time I make this, my family can’t get enough of it! I love that it’s a clever way to get kids to enjoy their veggies. Plus, who can resist melted cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are the star of this dish. You can substitute with yellow squash or a mix of both for added color and flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds that melty texture, while Parmesan gives a nice sharpness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: Both add creaminess to the dish. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well too. For a vegan substitute, use cashew cream or blended silken tofu.
Cherry Tomatoes: Feel free to use regular tomatoes, just chop them up small. For a sweeter touch, add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes instead.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Zucchini?
Getting maximum flavor from zucchini involves a few key steps. Start by sautéing it to bring out its sweetness. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This helps to caramelize the zucchinis.
- Cook until tender but still crisp—about 5-7 minutes. This prevents them from getting mushy in the oven.
- Season as you go! Add salt and pepper while cooking to enhance the zucchini’s natural flavors.
Remember, it’s all about balance! Keeping the texture while infusing flavor makes your dish a hit.
Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Dish:
- 4 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
For Seasoning and Cooking:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, making a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delicious side at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure you lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish so nothing sticks!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it turns translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells yummy.
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the diced zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is slightly softened but still has a bit of crunch. Season it with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like some spice.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Turn off the heat and stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, sour cream (or cream cheese), mayonnaise (if using), half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until it’s combined well.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Now, transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cheese lovers will appreciate this step!
7. Bake It:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let it bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye out for the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, add some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy warm as a side dish or just a fantastic cheesy treat!
Dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and delicious baked zucchini!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the vegetable you choose, as some may take longer to become tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is inherently gluten-free! Just be sure to check any pre-packaged ingredients you use, like mayonnaise or certain cheese blends, to ensure they’re gluten-free. You can easily omit breadcrumbs if you would like a gluten-free version.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just sprinkle the cheese on top and pop it in the oven. It may take a few extra minutes to bake if coming from the fridge.
