Description
Oven Baked Zucchini and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish perfect as a side or vegetarian main. Layers of thinly sliced zucchini are combined with gooey mozzarella, nutty Parmesan, and fresh herbs, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy and customizable recipe that makes the most of summer’s zucchini bounty.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or milk (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice zucchini into 1/4 inch rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let rest in a colander for 15–20 minutes. Pat dry.
- Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Layer zucchini slices in the dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, thyme, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.
- Pour cream or milk (if using) around the edges of the dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier top if desired.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.