🧀 Irresistible Baked Zucchini Cheese

By: Rabia

Tender zucchini baked under a golden, cheesy breadcrumb topping — this dish is comforting, flavorful, and so easy to make. A simple side that steals the spotlight!

📝 Recipe Card

Servings & Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Total Time: 35–40 minutes

  • Yield: 4 servings

Dietary Notes
✔️ Vegetarian
✔️ Kid-Friendly
✔️ Easy Weeknight Side

Ingredients (quick checklist):

  • Zucchini (sliced)

  • Garlic (minced)

  • Olive oil

  • Salt & pepper

  • Cheddar cheese (shredded)

  • Parmesan cheese (grated)

  • Breadcrumbs

Tools Needed:

  • Mixing bowl

  • Baking dish

  • Measuring cups & spoons

  • Oven

Instructions (Quick View):

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a baking dish.

  2. Toss zucchini with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  3. Spread evenly in dish.

  4. Sprinkle cheddar, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs on top.

  5. Bake 25–30 minutes until tender with golden topping.

  6. Cool slightly, then serve warm.

Notes:

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

  • Rest dish briefly before cutting for neater servings.

✨ Introduction

This Irresistible Baked Zucchini Cheese is the kind of recipe that turns simple zucchini into a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare, packed with cheesy flavor, and delivers that satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping. Whether as a weeknight side or a holiday table addition, this dish always earns compliments.

🥘 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Dish
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Season the Zucchini
In a large bowl, toss zucchini slices with garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Tip: Slice zucchini evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Spread seasoned zucchini into baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan. Top with breadcrumbs for that crispy finish.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25–30 minutes until zucchini is tender and topping is golden brown.
Tip: For extra crunch, broil the last 2 minutes.

Step 5: Rest & Serve
Let the dish cool a few minutes before serving for cleaner slices.

🧑‍🍳 Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini works best. Can also use yellow squash for color variety.

  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; swap with mozzarella for milder flavor.

  • Parmesan: Provides salty, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.

  • Breadcrumbs: Panko = extra crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work too.

  • Olive Oil: Adds richness; butter can be used for a creamier flavor.

🍽 Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Cheesy Upgrade: Add a layer of mozzarella under the breadcrumbs.

  • Herb Boost: Sprinkle Italian herbs or fresh parsley into the breadcrumb mix.

  • Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasoning.

  • Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Serving Ideas:

  • Pair with roasted chicken or grilled salmon.

  • Serve as a side to pasta or risotto.

  • Make it a vegetarian main with a side salad.

🥡 Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to keep topping crisp. Avoid microwaving (softens breadcrumbs).

  • Freezing: Not recommended — zucchini releases too much water.

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble dish (without breadcrumbs) up to 1 day ahead. Add breadcrumbs before baking.

📊 Nutrition (per serving, est.)

  • Calories: ~220 kcal

  • Protein: 9g

  • Carbs: 12g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Fiber: 2g

Allergens: Contains dairy and gluten (unless using GF breadcrumbs).

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❓ FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Fresh zucchini works best. Frozen zucchini releases too much liquid.

Q: Can I make this without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes — it will be less crunchy, but you can substitute crushed nuts or seeds.

Q: What’s the best cheese combo?
A: Cheddar + Parmesan gives balance, but you can add mozzarella for extra melt.

🍴 Personal Note

This dish was inspired by my grandmother’s cheesy casseroles, but with a lighter twist using zucchini. It’s one of those recipes that even picky eaters love — the cheesy topping makes it feel indulgent while still being veggie-forward.

💬 Call-to-Action

Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor — this Baked Zucchini Cheese will disappear fast from the table. 🥒🧀

👉 Would you serve this as a side dish, or enjoy it as a main with a fresh salad?

Rabia
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