Description
Cheesy Baked Zucchini is an easy, comforting side dish made with tender zucchini, garlic, Italian herbs, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Baked until golden and bubbling, this simple recipe is a delicious way to turn everyday zucchini into something the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (35 g) breadcrumbs
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Freshly cracked black pepper
Extra Parmesan, optional
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with olive oil.
2. Place the sliced zucchini in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until the zucchini is evenly coated.
3. Spread the seasoned zucchini evenly in the prepared baking dish, keeping the pieces in a mostly single layer.
4. In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried oregano, and olive oil. Mix until evenly combined.
5. Sprinkle the cheesy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the zucchini, making sure the surface is well covered.
6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
7. For an extra golden and crispy finish, switch the oven to broil/grill for the final 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent the cheese from burning.
8. Let the baked zucchini rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, freshly cracked black pepper, and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Keep the zucchini evenly sliced so similar-sized pieces cook at roughly the same rate.
Avoid overcrowding the baking dish. Keeping the zucchini in a mostly single layer helps the pieces cook evenly.
Freshly grated Parmesan adds savoury flavour and helps create a golden topping.
Watch the broiler/grill carefully because the cheese can brown quickly during the final 1–2 minutes.
Let the baked zucchini rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
The mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, oregano, and olive oil topping can be combined ahead of time and kept ready until assembly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American