Looking for a deliciously comforting dish that showcases the fresh flavors of summer? Look no further than this mouthwatering Zucchini Bake! With its layers of tender zucchini, gooey melted cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Not only is it easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, but it's also a perfect way to sneak in some veggies for the whole family. So grab your zucchinis and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delightful American classic!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
- Gently fold the sliced zucchini into the egg mixture, ensuring each slice is evenly coated.
- In a separate small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to create a uniform coating mixture.
- Layer half of the egg-coated zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the zucchini layer.
- Add the remaining zucchini slices on top of the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top layer.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture over the entire surface of the dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the zucchini is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Slice into portions and serve hot as a side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: For the best flavor and texture, select medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes. Fresh zucchinis will ensure your bake is vibrant and tasty.
- Pat Dry: After slicing your zucchini, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy topping and preventing a soggy bake.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of feta can elevate the flavor profile of your Zucchini Bake.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the taste by adding fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme to the egg mixture. This will give your dish an aromatic twist.
- Let It Rest: Allow the Zucchini Bake to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve this Zucchini Bake as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light main course with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
