This baked zucchini dish is a tasty treat! With creamy cheese melted on top, it makes veggies feel like a special snack. Perfect for a side dish or a light meal.
I love how easy it is to prepare—just slice, mix, and bake! The cheesy goodness makes even the pickiest eaters happy. Who knew veggies could be so cheesy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the dish! I love using medium zucchinis as they hold their shape well. If you’re out of zucchini, try eggplant or asparagus for a different twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings that melty goodness, while cheddar adds sharpness. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a fun flavor change. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives.
Heavy Cream: Cream makes this dish rich. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or low-fat milk. Coconut cream is a tasty non-dairy choice too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color, but you can swap them with regular tomatoes, diced. For a burst of flavor, sun-dried tomatoes work wonderfully!
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Golden and Melty?
The secret to achieving that beautiful bubbly cheese topping is in baking it uncovered. This lets the cheese brown nicely. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before adding the dish.
- Spread the cheese evenly on top of the creamy veggies; this ensures even melting.
- Keep an eye on it while baking. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Let it cool for 5 minutes after baking, as this helps the dish set and makes serving easier!
Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheesy Delight
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Vegetable Base:
- 4 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small yellow squash, diced (optional)
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheesy Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish is quick and straightforward! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this delicious veggie bake ready in roughly 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the Zucchini and Squash:
Now, add the diced zucchinis and the yellow squash (if you’re using it) to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. This step helps bring out their flavors!
4. Mix in the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove the pan from heat.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the sautéed veggies into your prepared baking dish. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the top, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
6. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly across the vegetable mixture. This will create a wonderfully cheesy layer!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and just lightly golden on top.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy baked zucchini dish as a comforting side or main course! It’s a delightful way to showcase tasty veggies in your meals!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?
Absolutely! You can incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Just make sure they are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Baked Zucchini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream to keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the dish a day ahead! Just follow the steps until before baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This cheesy delight pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over rice or pasta to make it a heartier meal!
