Go Back
+ servings
Parmesan Baked Zucchini

Delicious Parmesan Baked Zucchini Your New Favorite Side Dish

Parmesan Baked Zucchini is a quick and flavorful side dish that transforms humble zucchini with creamy sauce and cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini
  • 2 medium Zucchini Look for firm zucchini without soft spots for the best texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher salt for a milder flavor.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Greek yogurt or half-and-half can be used for a lighter variation.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Cream cheese can also work for a thicker texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used for a fresher taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion can be sautéed as an alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste for spice preference.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced garlic is recommended for best flavor.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated for even melt; fresh is preferred.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • colander
  • Skillet
  • medium bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by slicing your fresh zucchini into even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkling salt over them to draw out excess moisture. Allow the zucchini to rest for 15 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until combined. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté freshly minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cream mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Once the sauce is warm, stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy, smooth texture. Keep stirring for another minute.
  4. Take a buttered baking dish and layer the pat-dried zucchini slices evenly across the bottom. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese generously over the zucchini and sauce to form a golden-brown crust as it bakes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
  7. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 9gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 17gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, always pat zucchini dry after salting and continuously whisk the cream mixture while heating to prevent separation.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!