Description
Savory golden parmesan zucchini bake brings Mediterranean comfort right to your dinner table. Cheesy layers and herbed breadcrumbs create a delightful side dish that will become a family favorite you cannot resist.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Cheese and Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 375°F (190°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil spray.
- Create the first zucchini layer in the dish, ensuring slices are evenly spread and seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Distribute marinara sauce across the zucchini, covering the surface with an even layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Construct a second identical layer using remaining zucchini slices, marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Craft a crispy topping by combining panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a touch of salt in a separate bowl.
- Scatter the seasoned breadcrumb mixture uniformly over the cheese layer, ensuring complete coverage.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until zucchini becomes tender, cheese melts completely, and breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Slice zucchini uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to create thin, consistent slices that cook quickly and absorb flavors evenly.
- Sprinkle salt on zucchini slices beforehand to draw out excess moisture, preventing a watery final result and maintaining a crisp texture.
- Experiment with alternative cheese combinations like sharp cheddar or fontina for unique flavor profiles that complement the zucchini’s mild taste.
- For a gluten-free version, replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond meal to maintain the crispy topping.
- Add protein by layering cooked ground turkey or chicken between zucchini layers for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg