Zucchini is one of those magical vegetables that can do it all — it’s light, flavorful, and transforms beautifully whether you’re sautéing, grilling, or baking. If you’ve got a pile of fresh zucchini waiting to be used, this Cheesy Zucchini Bakeis one of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy it.
Golden, cheesy, and perfectly comforting, this dish is like a cross between a gratin and a casserole. It’s packed with tender zucchini, garlic, and melty cheese — the kind of side dish that disappears fast (and might just steal the spotlight from the main course!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Vegetable-forward comfort food – A lighter alternative to heavy pasta or potato bakes.
- Easy to make – Simple steps with minimal prep.
- Cheesy goodness – A crispy top with gooey layers inside.
- Perfect side dish – Works with grilled chicken, fish, or holiday roasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)