Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to enjoy zucchini! This simple baked zucchini and cheese dish is not only a breeze to whip up, but it’s also downright delicious. Seriously, I can’t get enough of that gooey, melty cheese paired with tender, perfectly baked zucchini. It’s a wonderful side dish that can easily steal the show at dinner or even stand alone as a light main course—perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying but light. I remember the first time I made this for a friend; we ended up devouring the entire dish in one sitting! You’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand because it’s a winner every time, and it just makes veggies taste so good! Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons for even cooking
- 1 cup shredded cheese, you can use either cheddar for a sharp flavor or mozzarella for a milder, creamier taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, to drizzle over the zucchini for that wonderful richness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, because garlic makes everything better!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, to enhance all those lovely flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, for a hint of warmth
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, optional but adds a lovely crunch on top
How to Prepare Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Getting this simple baked zucchini and cheese dish ready is a piece of cake! I love how straightforward the process is, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without a fuss. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting that cheese all bubbly and delicious!
- While the oven warms up, take your zucchinis and slice them into half-moons. I find that this shape helps them cook evenly and look super appealing in the dish.
- Next, grab a baking dish and arrange the sliced zucchinis in a single layer. Don’t worry about perfection; just get them in there!
- Now, drizzle the olive oil generously over the zucchini. This will add so much richness and flavor!
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the top. You can mix it up a bit if you like; I often add a pinch of crushed red pepper for extra kick!
- Then, it’s time for the star of the show: sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the zucchinis. Make sure every piece gets some cheesy goodness!
- If you’re feeling adventurous, go ahead and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for that extra crunch. It’s totally optional but oh-so-delicious.
- Finally, pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and the zucchini is tender. Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone running to the table!
And there you have it! A simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious simple baked zucchini and cheese dish! I always find it helpful to know what I’m putting into my body, especially when it’s this tasty. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 7g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. If you swap out the cheese or add more olive oil, it’ll definitely change the numbers a bit. But hey, it’s all about enjoying good food, right?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy nights!
- Deliciously cheesy and packed with flavor, making veggies irresistible.
- Versatile: serve it as a side dish or a light main course.
- Healthy ingredients that are satisfying without being heavy.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
Tips for Success
To make your simple baked zucchini and cheese truly shine, here are a few of my top tips! First, think about the size of your zucchini slices; keeping them uniform ensures even cooking, so aim for about 1/4-inch thick. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick. Also, don’t shy away from experimenting with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella and parmesan can give you that lovely cheesy crust. If you prefer your zucchini a bit firmer, reduce the baking time by a few minutes; just keep an eye on that cheese! Lastly, serving it fresh out of the oven is key—nothing beats that melty, gooey goodness. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about my simple baked zucchini and cheese is how wonderfully it complements a variety of dishes! You can serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a delightful, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and light. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette—just imagine those crispy greens with the warm, cheesy zucchini! If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try it with a side of quinoa or couscous; the flavors work together like a dream. You can even add it to a pasta dish for an extra veggie boost. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own! Trust me, it’ll elevate any meal to the next level.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious batch of simple baked zucchini and cheese, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! To store them, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re like me and always want to have a quick meal on hand, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should keep well for about 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the zucchini and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too! Just pop it in for 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on it so the cheese doesn’t get rubbery. Enjoy again that cheesy goodness!
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! This simple baked zucchini and cheese recipe is super versatile. You can easily swap in summer squash, eggplant, or even bell peppers. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different veggies may need slight adjustments.
What type of cheese works best?
I love using cheddar and mozzarella, but feel free to experiment! Gouda or fontina can add a delicious twist, too. Just remember, the cheesier, the better!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for a day. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven. Perfect for meal prep!
How do I add more flavor?
If you want to kick up the flavor, try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or even some diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You’ll still get that cheesy goodness without the gluten!
Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese: 7 Ways to Indulge
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy dish featuring baked zucchini and cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the zucchinis and place them in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the zucchini.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top.
- Add shredded cheese evenly over the zucchini.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and zucchini is tender.
Notes
- Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Serve as a side dish or a light main course.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: simple baked zucchini and cheese
