Name: Baked Zucchini Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Zucchini, sliced; 2–3 garlic cloves, minced; 1–2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)

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This baked zucchini cheese dish is the kind of recipe I lean on when I want something simple yet incredibly comforting. Fresh zucchini slices are tossed with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then baked under a cheesy layer of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan. A final sprinkle of golden breadcrumbs gives it a crispy finish that makes every bite satisfying. Whether I’m serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light vegetarian main, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s easy to make in one baking dish—no special tools required.
The cheesy topping bakes into a golden crust that pairs beautifully with tender zucchini.
It’s great for using up summer zucchini or impressing guests at a dinner.
It can serve as either a hearty side or a meatless main course.
Even picky eaters love it—especially with the extra crunch and gooey cheese.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

zucchini, sliced
garlic, minced
olive oil
salt
black pepper
cheddar cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
breadcrumbs

Directions

Preheat the Oven
I preheat my oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a medium-sized baking dish lightly with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and encourages a crispy base.
Season the Zucchini
In a mixing bowl, I toss the sliced zucchini with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. I use my hands to make sure each slice is evenly coated.
Layer in the Baking Dish
I spread the zucchini into the greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly so they cook evenly and hold together.
Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs
I sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan over the zucchini. Then I top it all with a layer of breadcrumbs to get that irresistible crispiness once baked.
Bake
I transfer the dish to the oven and bake it for 25 to 30 minutes. It’s done when the cheese is bubbling, the breadcrumbs are golden, and the zucchini is fork-tender.
Let It Rest and Serve
I let the dish sit for a few minutes once it comes out of the oven. This helps the cheese set a bit before I serve generous scoops.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish—15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes in the oven. It’s an easy weeknight option or a reliable dish for potlucks and gatherings.

Variations

I sometimes use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder flavor and creamier melt.
Adding chopped parsley, basil, or thyme gives the dish a fresh herbal touch.
For more crunch, I swap regular breadcrumbs for panko.
To make it more of a meal, I’ll stir in sautéed onions or even sliced mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

Store: I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: I reheat it in the oven uncovered to restore the crisp topping—about 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) does the trick.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish. Zucchini tends to release water when thawed, which can make the texture soggy.

FAQs

What type of cheese works best for this dish?

I like using a combination of sharp cheddar and real Parmesan. Cheddar adds creaminess, while Parmesan creates a salty, crisp top layer. Mozzarella or other melting cheeses can be used for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well and keep the topping crunchy.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming soggy?

I slice the zucchini evenly, don’t overcrowd the dish, and always add a topping—cheese and breadcrumbs help absorb extra moisture while crisping up beautifully.

Are there additional herbs I can add?

Absolutely. I’ve added fresh basil, oregano, and thyme with great success. They bring extra flavor and aroma that complement the garlic and cheese.

Is this dish suitable as a main meal?

Yes, I often serve it as a vegetarian main with a side salad or even some toasted bread. It’s hearty and cheesy enough to stand alone.

Conclusion

Baked zucchini cheese is one of those recipes that transforms humble ingredients into something truly comforting. The garlic, melted cheese, and crispy topping turn plain zucchini into a crave-worthy dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Whether I’m serving it as a side with roast meat or letting it shine solo, it always gets rave reviews—and I never mind making it again.