Loaded Zucchini Bake – Cheesy Comfort Recipe
Introduction
Loaded Zucchini Bake is a comforting and cheesy dish perfect for a simple weeknight meal. It combines tender zucchini with rich cream and melty cheese for a satisfying bake that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Arrange a layer of sliced zucchini at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Add a layer of shredded cheese over the zucchini, then drizzle some heavy cream evenly on top.
- Step 4: Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini, cheese, and cream until all ingredients are used.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of cheeses like Parmesan and mozzarella for extra flavor and a crispy top.
- Add herbs such as thyme or oregano to the layers for an aromatic touch.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a creamy plant-based alternative.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the dish’s creamy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Fresh zucchini works best as frozen zucchini can release extra water, making the bake soggy. If using frozen, thaw and drain well before assembling.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bake a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
PrintLoaded Zucchini Bake – Cheesy Comfort Recipe
This Loaded Zucchini Bake is a comforting and cheesy side dish perfect for zucchini lovers. Layers of fresh zucchini are combined with creamy cheese and a rich cream sauce, seasoned perfectly and baked to a golden bubbly finish. It’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy a vegetable-packed meal accompaniment with a velvety texture and irresistible cheesy flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Zucchini:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Cream & Seasoning:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini casserole evenly.
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and slice the zucchinis into thin rounds for layering.
- Mix cream and seasoning: In a bowl, combine heavy cream with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional Italian herbs, stirring well for a flavorful sauce.
- Layer the ingredients: In a baking dish, create layers starting with a portion of zucchini slices, followed by a generous sprinkle of mixed cheeses, then drizzle with the cream sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
- Cool and serve: Allow the baked zucchini to cool slightly before serving to let the layers set and flavors meld perfectly.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream.
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a meaty twist.
- Use a mix of cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyère for added depth of flavor.
- Ensure zucchini is sliced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Let the bake rest a few minutes before cutting to prevent it from falling apart.
Keywords: Zucchini bake, cheesy zucchini casserole, comfort food, baked vegetable dish, creamy zucchini recipe
