Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing side that’s cheesy, garlicky, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic is just what you need. It’s the perfect way to use up summer zucchini, and it’s ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or even a simple weeknight meal. The combination of tender zucchini, melty cheese, and fragrant garlic will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients you already have.
- Deliciously cheesy with a crispy, golden top layer.
- Packed with vegetables for a healthier comfort food option.
- Perfect as a side dish or even a light vegetarian main course.
- Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients for Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 1 ½ pounds), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions: How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
1. Prep the Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch (or similar) baking dish with olive oil. Pat the sliced zucchini dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this helps keep the bake from becoming watery.
2. Sauté the Zucchini and Garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini rounds and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they just begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix the Cheesy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ½ cup of Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed zucchini and garlic to the bowl. Toss in the shredded mozzarella and mix until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake
Pour the zucchini and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is bubbling at the edges.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Top with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
Notes & Tips for Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
- For best results, salt and drain the zucchini slices beforehand to remove more moisture. Learn more about how to salt zucchini.
- You can swap out mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a flavor twist.
- If you’d like a gluten-free version, this recipe is perfect as is. Get more gluten-free tips at Celiac Disease Foundation.
Variations: Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic Three Ways
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Mediterranean Style: Toss in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of sliced olives.
- Low-Carb Protein: Mix in 1 cup cooked, diced chicken breast for a heartier main dish.
Required Equipment for Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
- 9x9-inch (or similar) baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions & Shelf Life
Let the Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic cool to room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish is not recommended for freezing as the zucchini may become mushy.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Pair with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a flavorful dinner.
- Enjoy with crusty garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for extra crunch.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
- Cut the zucchini evenly for consistent baking and texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor – pre-shredded can be less flavorful and may not melt as well (find out why).
- Let the bake rest before slicing for clean, neat servings.
FAQ: Cheesy Zucchini Bake with Parmesan and Garlic
- Do I need to peel the zucchini?
- No, you don’t need to peel zucchini; the skin is tender and adds nutrition.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble the bake up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- How do I prevent the bake from being watery?
- Pat the zucchini dry, and salt and drain them if you have extra time. This step really helps remove excess moisture.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
-
1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish with olive oil.
-
2Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
-
3In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic.
-
4Add zucchini slices, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
-
5Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
-
6Bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the zucchini is tender. Let cool slightly before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!