Easy One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese

Introduction

Looking for a dish that’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and secretly healthy? This One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese recipe is everything you want in a weekday meal — cheesy, garlicky, and bursting with flavor. Made with simple ingredients like zucchini, olive oil, garlic, and melty cheese, it’s a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional casseroles or pasta bakes. Best of all, it’s ready in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more enjoyment.

This recipe transforms humble zucchini into a golden, bubbling dish that’s as good for dinner as it is for meal prep. It’s a perfect side dish for grilled meats or a main course for vegetarians. Whether you’re following a keto diet, trying to eat more veggies, or just love cheesy comfort food, this recipe will hit the spot every time.

My Recipe Story

The inspiration for this dish came during one of those “what’s in the fridge” moments. I had a few zucchinis left from a farmer’s market visit and a handful of cheese that needed using up. I tossed everything into a baking dish with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of herbs — and the aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible. The result was so satisfying that it quickly became one of my go-to comfort recipes.

Since then, I’ve made this One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese countless times. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress family and guests alike. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner yet delicious enough for a weekend potluck. The best part? It’s so adaptable — you can add tomatoes, bacon, or even a dash of chili for extra flavor.

Ingredient Breakdown

This dish starts with the star ingredient — zucchini. When baked, zucchini turns beautifully tender while maintaining just enough bite. It also absorbs the flavors of garlic and olive oil perfectly, creating a savory base for the melted cheese topping.

Olive oil adds richness and helps the zucchini caramelize while baking. Garlic infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and flavor, enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetables. You’ll also use a blend of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that perfect gooey, golden crust. The mozzarella melts into creamy layers, while Parmesan adds sharpness and a touch of saltiness.

Finally, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or dried herbs brings balance and freshness, tying everything together. If you want a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders. All these simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 1 large oven-safe skillet or baking dish
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease your baking dish or skillet with olive oil. This ensures the zucchini won’t stick and creates a crisp, golden edge as it bakes.
2. Prepare the zucchini: Wash and slice the zucchini into thin rounds, about ¼-inch thick. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent sogginess once baked.
3. Season the base: In a mixing bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well coated. The olive oil and garlic will flavor every layer beautifully.
4. Assemble the dish: Arrange the zucchini slices evenly in your pan, overlapping slightly like scalloped potatoes. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
5. Bake to perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. If you prefer extra crispness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
6. Serve and enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Variations & Substitutions

This dish is endlessly versatile. You can make it your own with simple tweaks and swaps. Try using yellow squash alongside zucchini for added color and sweetness. If you love extra creaminess, add a few spoonfuls of ricotta or cream cheese before baking. Want more protein? Mix in some cooked chicken, bacon, or crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.

For a vegan version, replace the cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternatives and drizzle with a touch of cashew cream after baking. You can also adjust the herbs — swap Italian seasoning for herbes de Provence or a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy flavor.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead

Leftovers of this dish store wonderfully. Simply transfer cooled portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the zucchini soggy.

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until bubbly again.

If you’re planning ahead, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve — it’s a great time-saver for busy days or dinner parties.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese is a perfect companion to so many dishes. Serve it as a side for grilled chicken, steak, or salmon to add a fresh, cheesy twist. It also pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or garlic bread for a more filling meal.

For a vegetarian dinner, enjoy it with a fresh tomato basil salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. You can even serve it as a low-carb main dish topped with a poached egg or alongside pasta for a comforting Italian-inspired spread.

FAQ

1. Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Yes, though cheese adds the signature texture and flavor. You can substitute with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option.

2. How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Dry the zucchini slices well and avoid overbaking. You can also sprinkle a bit of salt on the zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot away excess moisture before cooking.

3. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes for a more colorful and flavorful bake.

4. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classics, but cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack also work beautifully for richer flavors.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes if needed to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With its golden, cheesy crust and tender zucchini layers, it’s comfort food made lighter and fresher. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish always delivers warmth and satisfaction.

One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A cheesy, garlicky, one-pan baked zucchini dish that’s light, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Perfect as a side or healthy main course.

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Ingredients

 • 3 medium zucchini, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. 
2. In a mixing bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. 
3. Arrange the zucchini in the dish, overlapping slightly like scalloped potatoes. 
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. 
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. 
6. Broil for 2–3 minutes if you want a crispier top, then garnish with parsley before serving.
   

Notes

 Pat zucchini slices dry before baking to prevent excess moisture. Serve with grilled meats, pasta, or salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean