Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese Recipe

Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese is one of those swoon-worthy side dishes that never fails to impress. With its medley of vibrant zucchini, sweet tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella cheese, each bite is both outrageously flavorful and delightfully simple. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight addition or the highlight of a summer meal, there’s something so satisfying about pulling this bubbly, cheesy classic from the oven and letting everyone dig right in. If you love dishes that celebrate fresh veggies and cheesy comfort, this is bound to become a staple in your repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish comes together beautifully with just a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a unique role in creating the ultimate Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese. The key is balancing freshness, color, and that unbeatable meltiness.

• Zucchini: Opt for firm, medium-to-large zucchini to get perfect tender bites every time.
• Mozzarella cheese: Buy a block and grate it yourself for the stretchiest, richest melt.
• Green bell pepper: Adds a crisp, sweet crunch that pops within the creamy filling.
• Onion: Diced onion lends warmth, depth, and just a hint of sweetness.
• Grape tomatoes: Their juiciness balances the cheese and gives bursts of summery flavor.
• Olive oil: Just a drizzle brings everything together and encourages browning and flavor mingling.
• Italian herb blend: Classic herbs like oregano and basil make the veggies sing.
• Garlic powder: Delivers a consistent garlicky note without any chopping or peeling.
• Salt: Really makes the flavors pop and draws out the zucchini’s moisture.
• Cracked black pepper: Adds a bit of depth and subtle heat.
• Chopped parsley: Freshness and color, perfect for a pretty finish.
• Red chili flakes: Sprinkle for garnish if you like a little gentle heat and color.

How to Make Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—set your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Starting with a properly preheated oven is crucial here so your veggies and cheese bake up evenly and golden. You’ll have time to prep everything while the oven gets nice and hot, so go ahead and flick that switch!

Step 2: Combine and Season the Vegetables

Toss the cubed zucchini, chopped green bell pepper, diced onion, and halved grape tomatoes right into your baking dish. Sprinkle on the Italian herb blend, garlic powder, half of your grated mozzarella, salt, and cracked black pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil. Now, get in there and stir—really mix things up so every veggie is slicked with oil, tangled with herbs, and kissed with a little cheese. This step is all about making sure every forkful is colorful and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Bake the Vegetable Mixture

Slide your baking dish of seasoned veggie goodness into the preheated oven, uncovered. Bake for about 20 minutes. The vegetables will start to soften, caramelize at the edges, and your kitchen will fill with the coziest, cheesiest aroma. You’ll know it’s ready when you can gently pierce the zucchini with a fork.

Step 4: Top with Remaining Cheese and Finish Baking

Carefully pull out the baking dish and sprinkle that glorious remaining mozzarella over the top. This final cheesy layer is what takes Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese from good to incredible. Pop it back in the oven for another 10 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling, with little golden spots all over the top. If you love a more browned crust, you can broil it for an extra minute or two.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

When it’s done, take your piping hot Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese out of the oven and shower it with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. For a hint of heat (and an eye-catching finish), scatter a pinch of red chili flakes over the top. Serve it right away—it’s best when the cheese is still gooey and everything smells irresistible!

How to Serve Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a light dusting of red chili flakes perfectly complement the gooey cheese and vibrant veggies. This little touch adds color, a splash of brightness, and, if you like, a bit of gentle heat. You could even add a few fresh basil leaves for extra fragrance.

Side Dishes

Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese makes a stellar side for just about any main: pair it with grilled chicken, roast salmon, or anything from your favorite summer barbecue. For a vegetarian supper, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or a fresh, crusty loaf of bread to mop up all those cheesy juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For something special, spoon the baked zucchini and cheese into individual shallow bowls, or try serving it as a bruschetta topping on toasted baguette slices. It also looks lovely in a wide, shallow baking dish garnished with extra herbs. You’ll have guests reaching for seconds before you even sit down!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese, let it cool to room temperature, then spoon it into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it’s just as delicious reheated the next day for a quick lunch or side.

Freezing

While technically you can freeze this dish, the texture of zucchini does change a bit after being frozen and thawed—it becomes a touch softer. If you decide to freeze, make sure everything is completely cooled, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply scoop the desired amount into an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 350ºF (175ºC) until hot and bubbling. A quick zap in the microwave works as well, but the oven helps maintain a nice, melty cheese top.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella gives a gorgeously melty texture, feel free to swap in sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix for extra depth and character.

How do I keep the zucchini from getting too watery?

Cutting your zucchini into larger cubes (rather than thin slices) helps retain some texture. Also, baking uncovered allows some moisture to evaporate, giving you a firm, delicious bake rather than a soggy one.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Chopped mushrooms, sliced yellow squash, or even some baby spinach wilted in during baking would all fit beautifully. Just keep an eye on total bake time and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Is Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this recipe is totally gluten-free. If you decide to add breadcrumbs or serve it with bread, be sure to check those ingredients if you need to avoid gluten.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

You can assemble the veggie and cheese mix a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge, then bake it fresh before serving. Add the finishing cheese and garnishes for the last few minutes in the oven for best results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a comforting, foolproof way to transform humble garden veggies into something magical, Simple Baked Zucchini and Cheese is your ticket. I truly hope you give this cozy, cheesy recipe a whirl—you might just find it landing on your regular dinner rotation!

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