This Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini is a tasty side dish that brings out the best in fresh veggies! With melted cheese on top, every bite is comforting and delicious.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip this up! I love serving it warm and crisp for a family dinner—everyone fights over the last piece! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key here. If you can’t find it, summer squash works as a great alternative. Eggplant can also do the trick, but it will have a different flavor and texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness to the dish. You can swap them for diced regular tomatoes. If those aren’t available, canned tomatoes work in a pinch, just drain them first!
Onion and Garlic: I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness, but white onions or shallots can also be used. If you’re avoiding garlic, try using garlic powder for that hint of flavor.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is gooey and melty, but feel free to mix in cheddar or gouda for a twist. If you want to cut back on dairy, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the creaminess.
How Do I Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted and Golden?
Achieving that golden, bubbly cheese topping is easy with these tips:
- Make sure to use a combination of cheeses, as the different melting points create a nice texture.
- Broil the dish for the last minute or two to get the cheese golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly!
- Allow the dish to sit after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve.
Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Time Estimate:
This Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking, making it around 35 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
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 your cheesy goodness!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped onion. These fresh veggies will create a flavorful base for your dish.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the zucchini, tomatoes, and onion to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Season this mixture with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Once the vegetables are slightly softened, transfer them into a greased baking dish. Make sure to spread them out evenly.
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the veggies. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top for that melty, cheesy layer we all love!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
9. Serve:
Enjoy this warm as a delightful side dish or a light main course. It’s gooey, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!
This recipe makes a creamy, cheesy vegetable bake that’s the perfect blend of tender zucchini and sweet cherry tomatoes—great for pairing with any meal or savoring on its own!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out or add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust as needed to ensure everything is tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave for quick servings.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and choose dairy-free cheese for a delicious dairy-free version of this recipe!
