• 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise (or into thick rounds)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Pine nuts or crushed crackers (for extra texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Zucchini

1. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into long strips or into thick rounds, depending on your preference.
2. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

3. Season the Zucchini

1. Drizzle the zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a brush to evenly coat both sides of the zucchini slices.

4. Add the Cheese

1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the zucchini slices, ensuring each piece gets plenty of cheesy goodness.
2. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a golden crust.

5. Add Crunch (Optional)

1. If you’d like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer. You can also mix the breadcrumbs with a little olive oil or melted butter for extra crispiness.

6. Bake

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
2. For extra browning, broil the dish for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking (watch closely to avoid burning).

7. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, red pepper flakes, or pine nuts for added flair.
3. Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!

Tips for Success

• Choose Firm Zucchini: Look for small to medium-sized zucchini, as they tend to be less watery than larger ones.
• Pat Dry: To prevent excess moisture, pat the zucchini slices dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try using cheddar, Gruyère, fontina, or feta for different flavor profiles.
• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked bacon bits, sausage crumbles, or diced ham for a heartier dish.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely for a low-carb option.

Why This Recipe Works

This Baked Zucchini Cheese takes full advantage of zucchini’s natural mild flavor and tender texture, pairing it with rich, melty cheese and optional crispy toppings. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of crunch creates a satisfying contrast that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary results.

Conclusion: A Cheesy Delight Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up summer zucchini, need a quick and easy side dish, or want to impress guests with a cheesy appetizer, this Baked Zucchini Cheese is sure to satisfy. Its creamy texture, bold flavors, and versatility make it a standout dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tweak it to suit any taste or occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this baked zucchini cheese might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨