This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is a tasty dish that combines fresh zucchini with gooey cheese and a crunchy topping. It’s a delightful way to sneak in some veggies!
I love how quick this bake is to whip up! Just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a warm, cheesy treat without the fuss. Perfect for a family dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This recipe calls for medium-sized zucchinis. If you can’t find any, yellow squash is a great alternative. Both will give a similar texture and taste to the dish.
Cheese: I recommend mozzarella for that stretchy, gooey texture and Parmesan for extra flavor. If you want to switch it up, try using cheddar or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly option.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Both add creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream. You could also use vegan mayo if you’re going dairy-free.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great flavor, but if you have garlic powder on hand, you can use about 1/4 teaspoon instead. I always prefer fresh when possible for that rich taste!
How Do You Ensure Your Zucchini Bakes Perfectly?
Getting the zucchini cooked just right is crucial for this dish! You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Cut the zucchinis into even, thin slices. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Layering them evenly helps with cooking.
- Check for doneness at around the 25-minute mark. If the cheese is bubbly and golden, your bake is ready!
Lastly, letting the dish cool for a few minutes before serving helps set the cheesy layers, making it easier to scoop out. Enjoy your bake!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes. Just a little waiting time for a fantastic cheesy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, take a medium-sized baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Using a whisk or a spatula, mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Coat the Zucchini
Add the thinly sliced zucchinis to the creamy mixture. Gently toss them until each slice is evenly coated in that delightful creamy goodness.
4. Assemble the Dish
Transfer the zucchini into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly in a single layer. This helps them cook nicely. Now, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese generously over the top!
5. Bake It!
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the zucchini is tender and the cheese is gooey and golden brown on top.
6. Cool and Serve
Once it’s done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool down slightly. This makes it easier to scoop out portions. If you like, garnish with some extra fresh parsley for a pop of color!
7. Enjoy!
Serve this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake warm as a fabulous side dish or even as a main course. It’s super cheesy, creamy, and delicious!
Enjoy your easy, cheesy, and creamy zucchini bake! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! You can mix in or substitute other vegetables like yellow squash, eggplant, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if you add any veggies that release a lot of moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any flour or bread crumbs. Just ensure the cheese and any other packaged ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free, if necessary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. If you find the sauce has thickened, add a little splash of milk or cream during reheating to restore its creaminess.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and creamy mixture ahead of time. Just layer everything in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s been in the fridge.
