Name: Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Zucchinis (sliced); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese; 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 clove Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); Fresh Basil (for garnish (optional))

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a creamy, flavorful, and totally irresistible dinner option that comes together in a snap? Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese might just become your new go-to weeknight favorite! This recipe transforms humble zucchini into melty, golden perfection, all with a handful of everyday ingredients. There’s something invitingly cozy about the combination of bubbling cheese, herby breadcrumbs, and soft, succulent zucchini. Did you know zucchini has been a home garden staple for centuries due to its prolific growing abilities—and its knack for livening up the dinner table? This dish makes the most of zucchini season and is so simple, even the kids will love helping out in the kitchen.

If you’ve enjoyed my Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Bake, you’ll recognize that same family-friendly spirit here—easy prep, minimal fuss, maximum comfort food vibes. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did, and your family will be asking for seconds!

What is Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese?

What’s in a name? When it comes to Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese, the answer is: everything you love about cheesy comfort food—except the guilt! The name says it all; it’s zucchini, it’s cheese, and it’s baked to oven-blessed, golden-gooey perfection. Why complicate things? Some say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but I’d argue this dish will win over everyone at your table. Did I invent the name? Maybe not, but I’m certainly on a mission to make it a household classic! Give it a try—you just might find yourself saying, “Now I know why it’s called that.”

Why You’ll Love This

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese is the ultimate answer to the question, “What’s for dinner?” The main highlight: it’s deliciously creamy and packed with cheesy goodness, making it a comforting crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent without being heavy. You’ll also love how budget-friendly it is—fresh zucchini is affordable and abundant, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. The flavor comes alive with the irresistible topping of mozzarella, nutty Parmesan, herby oregano, and crispy breadcrumbs.

This dish has a certain “wow” factor, very similar to my Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole—simple veggies taken to the next level with the help of good cheese and clever baking. Ready to experience veggie magic? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make family dinner extra special tonight!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese is delightfully easy and delivers big, comforting flavors in less than 40 minutes from start to finish. With simple ingredients, cheesy layers, and a crispy topping, this recipe brings together the best qualities of a satisfying vegetarian bake—creamy on the inside, crisp and golden on top. Perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or even potluck gatherings!

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish or line it with parchment for easier cleanup.
Wash and slice the zucchinis into 1/4 inch-thick rounds. Place the slices in a large bowl.
Drizzle the zucchini rounds with olive oil. Add salt, pepper, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Toss everything together until the zucchini is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.
Layer half of the zucchini in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices. Sprinkle half of the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the zucchini.
Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices to create another layer. Top with the rest of the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed for that perfect golden crust.
Place the dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the zucchini is fork-tender and the cheese topping is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Remove from the oven. Let cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve With

This versatile dish plays well with almost any meal. Pair it with grilled chicken or roasted salmon for a hearty dinner, or serve alongside a fresh salad like my Lemon Arugula Salad for a lighter approach. For a complete vegetarian spread, accompany it with garlic bread or steamed quinoa. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon would perfectly complement the cheesy, herby flavors. Don’t forget to round out the meal with a fruity dessert—think fresh berries or a scoop of lemon sorbet.

Top Tips for Perfecting

To get the best texture, slice the zucchini evenly so it cooks uniformly. If you’re out of mozzarella, try using cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different yet delicious twist. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Don’t overbake—the goal is tender zucchini, not mush! Layering is key: make sure you distribute the cheese mixture between the layers so every bite is flavorful. Finally, let the dish cool for a few minutes before cutting—this helps the cheesy topping set and makes serving easier.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese stores well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place servings in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, or pop individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot. If you’d like to freeze leftovers, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The topping may lose some crispness after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
It’s easy—just substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Can I add other veggies to this recipe?
Of course! Eggplant, bell peppers, or thinly sliced tomatoes are great additions for extra flavor and color.

What’s the best way to slice the zucchini?
Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even, uniform slices—about 1/4 inch thick is perfect.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then blot excess moisture with a paper towel before assembling.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together for maximum comfort and flavor. With its gooey, golden topping and herby, tender zucchini, this dish promises a satisfying meal that everyone will love—no gourmet skills required. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe delivers results every time. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and discover just how delicious and easy homemade comfort food can be. Happy cooking!