Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Introduction
Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese is a delicious dish that combines tender zucchini with rich cheeses and crispy breadcrumbs. This recipe is perfect for a side dish or a light meal. Its cheesy goodness will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese is a wonderful way to enjoy healthy vegetables in a tasty way. This dish is easy to prepare and requires just a few ingredients. It is a crowd-pleaser that can be served at family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for those who might not usually enjoy them.
How to Make Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced zucchini, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Layer the zucchini mixture in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture on top of the zucchini.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Serve this dish warm as a side with your favorite main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You can also enjoy it as a light meal on its own. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch!
How to Store Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Tips to Make Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
- For extra flavor, add spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture.
- If you love garlic, feel free to add more than 2 cloves!
Variation
Try adding cooked sausage or ground beef for a heartier dish. You can also substitute different vegetables, such as bell peppers or eggplant, for a tasty twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture. If you must use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains breadcrumbs, which usually contain gluten. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving!
Irresistible Baked Zucchini and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious dish combining tender zucchini with rich cheeses and crispy breadcrumbs, perfect for a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced zucchini, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Layer the zucchini mixture in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture on top of the zucchini.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs. Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
