How long does it take zucchini to cook in the oven?

Zucchini usually cooks in the oven in about 20 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the pieces and oven temperature. For this baked zucchini and cheese recipe, we bake the veggie mixture for 20 minutes, then finish with another 10 minutes after adding the remaining cheese. This ensures everything is perfectly tender and the cheese is nicely melted.

Which cheese goes well with zucchini?

Mozzarella is a top choice for baked zucchini and cheese because it melts beautifully and offers a mild, creamy flavor. But you can also use cheddar for a sharper bite, provolone for stretch, or even parmesan for a savory, golden crust on top.

How to prevent zucchini from getting soggy in the oven?

To avoid soggy zucchini in this baked zucchini and cheese dish, make sure to cut the zucchini into medium cubes, bake uncovered, and avoid overcrowding your pan. You can also salt the zucchini beforehand, let it sit for 10 minutes, and pat it dry before baking to release excess moisture.

Is it better to bake or sauté zucchini?

Both methods are great, but baking offers better texture and deeper flavor in dishes like baked zucchini and cheese. While sautéing is faster, it can lead to watery or mushy zucchini. Baking allows moisture to cook off and helps flavors concentrate under the layer of melted cheese.

Baked Zucchini and Cheese: A Family Favorite That’s Always a Hit

Name: Baked Zucchini and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large zucchini, cut into cubes; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (divided); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian herb blend; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp cracked black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped parsley, for topping; 1/2 tsp red chili flakes, for garnish

Ingredients

Scale

2 large zucchini, cut into cubes

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 onion, diced

1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half

1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (divided)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp Italian herb blend

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cracked black pepper

1 tbsp chopped parsley, for topping

1/2 tsp red chili flakes, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375ºF (190ºC).

2. In a baking dish, combine zucchini, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, half the mozzarella cheese, herbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Toss well.

3. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the zucchini is mostly tender.

4. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

5. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley and red chili flakes.

7. Serve hot as a side or light main dish.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for best melting results. For a sharper flavor, try substituting mozzarella with provolone or cheddar. You can also add cooked ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a full meal.

Author: EmilyFrost
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner, Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 390mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 18mg