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I'm so excited to share my favorite Baked Zucchini and Cheese recipe with you today! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen. It's incredibly versatile whether you need a quick side dish or a light dinner. The best part? It's naturally keto friendly low carb and perfect for my vegetarian friends. Trust me once you try this cheesy goodness you'll be hooked.
Why You'll Love Making This
Let me tell you why this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It's my go to when my garden is overflowing with summer zucchini. The way the cheese melts into all those perfectly seasoned vegetables creates something truly magical. Plus it's so quick to throw together perfect for those busy evenings when you still want something homemade and delicious.
Let's Gather Our Ingredients
- Zucchini: 2 large ones fresh from the garden if you've got them
- Onion: 1 medium I love using sweet onions here
- Grape tomatoes: 1 cup they burst with flavor while baking
- Green bell pepper: 1 adds such lovely color and crunch
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons use the good stuff here
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon because everything's better with garlic
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon my secret weapon
- Salt and pepper: ½ teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper to taste
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup freshly grated is best
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon fresh from my herb garden
- Chili flakes: ½ teaspoon optional but I love the kick
Let's Get Cooking
- First Things First
- Get your oven warming up to 375ºF. While that's happening we'll prep everything else.
- Prep Your Veggies
- I love this part! Grab your favorite baking dish and toss in all those colorful vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with our seasonings. The first layer of cheese goes in now too.
- Time to Bake
- Pop it in the oven uncovered and let it work its magic for about 20 minutes. You'll know it's ready when you can easily pierce the zucchini with a fork.
- Cheese Time
- This is where the magic happens! Take it out add that final layer of cheese and back in it goes until it's all melty and golden.
- The Finishing Touch
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and if you're feeling spicy add those chili flakes. I always do!
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My Top Tips
Here's a game changer I discovered after making this countless times salt your zucchini first! Just 15 minutes on some paper towels makes such a difference in preventing that dreaded sogginess. Sometimes I'll even give them a quick sauté first.
What to Serve With It
This dish plays so nicely with others! We love it alongside grilled chicken or my husband's famous pork chops. It's also amazing with some simple pasta or rice. I've even served it solo for a light lunch.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you happen to have any leftovers they'll keep beautifully in the fridge for a couple days. Just pop them in an airtight container. I don't recommend freezing though it gets a bit watery when thawed.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I like mixing things up with different cheese combinations. A sprinkle of parmesan on top is heavenly. You can also swap in yellow squash for some of the zucchini or play around with your favorite herbs.
Say No to Soggy Zucchini
Let me share my number one tip: taking those extra few minutes to salt your zucchini really makes all the difference. Just pat them dry before they go in the dish and you'll get that perfect texture every time.
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Perfect for Any Gathering
I've brought this dish to countless potlucks and family dinners. It's always a hit and people love that it's both healthy and indulgent. Plus it looks so pretty with all those colors!
Adding Some Protein
When I want to make this a complete meal I'll toss in some cooked chicken or turkey sausage. It transforms into a fantastic one dish dinner that my whole family loves.
Cheese Choices
While I usually reach for mozzarella don't be afraid to experiment! Sharp cheddar adds amazing flavor and Monterey Jack melts beautifully. A sprinkle of parmesan on top is absolutely divine.
For My Vegan Friends
I've made this for my vegan daughter using dairy free cheese and nutritional yeast. It turns out wonderfully and everyone can enjoy it. The vegetables really shine in this version.
Meal Prep Magic
This is one of my favorite dishes to prep ahead. I often make a big batch on Sunday and portion it out for easy lunches during the week. Just reheat when you're ready to eat.
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Adding That Crunch
Sometimes I'll sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs on top with the cheese. It creates this amazing crispy layer that everyone fights over. Use gluten free breadcrumbs if needed.
Perfect for Low Carb Diets
This dish fits perfectly into a low carb lifestyle. I started making it when my husband went keto and it's still in our regular rotation even though he's not strictly keto anymore.
Changing with the Seasons
I love adapting this recipe throughout the year. Summer brings fresh tomatoes and herbs fall is perfect for adding butternut squash. It's so versatile you can really make it work with what's in season.
Getting That Perfect Bake
Here's a tip from my kitchen: cut all your veggies about the same size. They'll cook evenly and look prettier too. I always use my favorite ceramic baking dish it conducts heat beautifully.
Make It Look Amazing
Want to wow your guests? Serve this in a pretty cast iron skillet. The rustic look is gorgeous and it keeps the dish nice and hot. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes it look like it came from a restaurant.
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Always a Hit
Every time I bring this to a gathering people beg for the recipe. It's become my signature dish and I love how it brings everyone together around the table.
Playing with Flavors
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. Sometimes I'll add fresh basil or a pinch of smoked paprika. Each variation brings something special to the dish.
Wine and Dine
When we're having friends over I love serving this with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The wine's brightness perfectly complements the cheesy vegetables. It feels so elegant yet it's so simple.
Making It a Meal
Need a heartier dish? I often stir in some cooked quinoa or lentils. It becomes this amazing complete meal that's still vegetarian and absolutely delicious.
Kid Approved Version
My little ones weren't so sure about zucchini at first but this dish won them over. I skip the chili flakes and use their favorite cheese blend. Now they ask for seconds!
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Quick and Simple
This is my go to recipe when life gets busy. Just 30 minutes in the oven and dinner is ready. It's perfect for those evenings when you want something homemade but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Keep It Fresh
The secret to avoiding watery zucchini is starting with fresh firm vegetables. Don't overcook them and if you have time that pre salting step really does make a difference.
Loving Those Leftovers
Some dishes are even better the next day! I love chopping up the leftovers for amazing omelets or tucking them into a wrap for lunch. It's like getting two meals in one.
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Mediterranean Style
Sometimes I give this dish a Mediterranean twist with some kalamata olives and feta cheese. It transports me right to a sunny Greek island absolutely delicious!
So Many Ways to Serve
The versatility of this dish never ceases to amaze me. Serve it as a side bring it to potlucks make it the star of your meatless Monday. It works beautifully for any occasion.
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Guilt Free Comfort
What I love most about this dish is how it satisfies those comfort food cravings while still being packed with vegetables. It's the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent soggy zucchini?
- Salt zucchini and let rest on paper towels for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Or sauté briefly before baking.
- → Can I use different cheese?
- Yes, any melting cheese works. Can also add parmesan for extra flavor.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
- Store in fridge up to 2 days. Not recommended for freezing as zucchini becomes watery when thawed.
- → What can I serve this with?
- Pairs well with grilled chicken, pork chops, steak, shrimp or salmon. Great versatile side dish.