CHEESY BAKED PARMESAN ZUCCHINI ULTIMATE

Tired of the same old zucchini recipes? Imagine tender zucchini slices, bathed in garlic butter, blanketed with a generous layer of Parmesan and mozzarella, and baked to golden, bubbly perfection – that’s what awaits you with this Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini. It’s a simple recipe that transforms a humble vegetable into a delicious and satisfying dish, and I promise, even the zucchini skeptics will be reaching for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Zucchini:

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheesy Topping:

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Let’s Prep: Getting Ready for Zucchini Nirvana

Okay, before we dive into the baking, let’s get everything prepped and ready to go. This will make the whole process smooth and enjoyable. Remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful!

Preheating and Pan Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Parchment paper is my go-to because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!

Slicing the Zucchini

• Wash and dry your zucchini.
• Trim off the ends.
• Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep them as uniform as possible so they cook evenly. I find a mandoline slicer helpful for this, but a sharp knife works just fine too.

Melting the Butter and Mincing the Garlic

• Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan over low heat.
• Mince the garlic. I prefer fresh garlic, but you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.

Mixing the Cheesy Goodness

• In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian herbs (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your Way to Zucchini Perfection

Now for the main event! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be enjoying a plate of delicious Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini in no time.

Step 1: Tossing the Zucchini

1. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the zucchini is evenly coated. This step is crucial for adding flavor and preventing the zucchini from being bland.

Step 2: Arranging on the Baking Sheet

1. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; otherwise, the zucchini will steam instead of bake. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

Step 3: Topping with Cheese

1. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini slices. Be generous! This is what makes them cheesy and delicious.

Step 4: Baking Time!

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini

Want to take your Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:

Choose the Right Zucchini

• Look for zucchini that are firm and have smooth, unblemished skin. Smaller zucchini tend to be less watery and have fewer seeds.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

• As mentioned before, overcrowding the pan will cause the zucchini to steam instead of bake. Make sure the slices are in a single layer with some space between them.

Adjust the Baking Time

• The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the zucchini slices. Keep an eye on them and adjust the time as needed.

Add Extra Flavor

• Get creative with your seasonings! Try adding a sprinkle of paprika, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick.

Use Different Cheeses

• Experiment with different cheeses! Provolone, Gruyere, or even a little crumbled feta would be delicious additions.

Make it a Meal

• Add some cooked sausage or bacon to the cheese mixture for a heartier dish. This is a great way to turn this side dish into a light meal.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Zucchini Masterpiece

Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• As a side dish to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• As an appetizer for parties or gatherings.
• Alongside a simple pasta dish.
• With a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal.
• As a topping for crostini or bruschetta.

You could easily serve this Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini with Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf for a super satisfying meal, or even alongside some Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potatoes for a double dose of parmesan goodness! If you love potatoes, you might also enjoy Cheesy Ranch Potatoes With Smoked Sausage. For another delicious side, consider Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges. And if you’re a mac and cheese fan, you definitely need to try Garlic Parmesan Mac And Cheese!

Storing and Reheating: Making the Most of Your Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing

• Let the zucchini cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• You can also reheat in the microwave, but the zucchini may become a bit soggy.

Variations: Spice It Up!

Want to put your own spin on this Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• Mediterranean: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
• Italian: Add some chopped basil, oregano, and rosemary to the cheese mixture.
• Garlic Lover’s: Add extra minced garlic or a teaspoon of garlic powder to the cheese mixture.

I hope you enjoy this Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy one of summer’s most abundant vegetables. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Ultimate

This Cheesy Baked Parmesan Zucchini transforms simple zucchini into a flavorful and satisfying side dish. Tender zucchini slices are coated in garlic butter, topped with a generous layer of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, and baked to golden, bubbly perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs optional
• Pinch of red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
2. Wash, dry, and trim the ends of the zucchini. Slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan. Mince the garlic.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian herbs (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
5. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
6. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
7. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini slices.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Choose firm zucchini with smooth skin. Smaller zucchini are less watery. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the zucchini. Baking time may vary depending on your oven. Experiment with different seasonings like paprika or onion powder. Try using different cheeses like provolone or Gruyere. Add cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier dish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave. For a spicy variation, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For a Mediterranean twist, add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. For an Italian flavor, add basil, oregano, and rosemary. For garlic lovers, add extra minced garlic or garlic powder.