Indulge in Flavor: 10 Cheesy Zucchini Recipes You’ll Crave All Summer
Looking for delicious ways to enjoy zucchini? Zucchini recipes with cheese combine fresh, tender zucchini with creamy, melty cheeses for irresistible dishes. Whether baked into casseroles, layered into lasagnas, or stuffed with savory fillings, these cheesy zucchini recipes are perfect for dinner, snacks, or side dishes!
1. Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake
A beloved classic, this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake combines fresh zucchini with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, along with aromatic herbs like basil and thyme. Simply slice the zucchini, mix it with the herbs and cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. This dish is not only low-carb but also a great way to utilize excess summer zucchini.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2 medium yellow squash
- Fresh basil and green onions
- Dried thyme and garlic powder
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Slice zucchini and squash. Toss with herbs, cheese, and seasoning.
- Spread in a greased baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes until tender and cheese is golden.
2. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a quick and satisfying meal. Sauté zucchini and onions, then mix with tomatoes, bell peppers, and a generous helping of mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a scrumptious summer dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 large zucchini
- Chopped onion, tomatoes, and green bell pepper
- Dried Italian herbs
- Mozzarella cheese
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.
- Sauté zucchini and onion until golden, transfer to the dish with tomatoes and bell pepper.
- Top with cheese and bake for 25 minutes.
3. Baked Cheesy Zucchini Bites
These Baked Cheesy Zucchini Bites are a healthier alternative to fried fritters, making them a perfect snack or side dish. Simple to prepare, they include shredded zucchini mixed with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, baked until crispy.
Ingredients:
- Shredded zucchini
- Egg
- Shredded cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- Bread crumbs
- Garlic and fresh basil
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl, form into discs, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.
4. Zucchini Frittata
A delightful way to enjoy a protein-packed meal, a Zucchini Frittata is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Whisk eggs with sautéed zucchini and cheese, then bake until set.
Ingredients:
- Eggs
- Shredded zucchini
- Cheese (feta or cheddar works well)
- Herbs of choice
Preparation:
- Sauté zucchini. Whisk eggs with cheese and herbs, then combine with zucchini.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and bake until the frittata is puffed and cooked through.
5. Zucchini Parmesan Bake
This Zucchini Parmesan Bake is an Italian-inspired dish that layers slices of zucchini with marinara sauce and cheesy goodness. Baking creates a comforting, hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Italian spices
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer zucchini with marinara sauce and cheese in a baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbling and golden.
6. Cheesy Zucchini and Corn Fritters
Cheesy Zucchini and Corn Fritters combine the sweetness of corn with cheesy zucchini for a delightful bite. Serve them with a dipping sauce as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
- Grated zucchini
- Corn kernels
- Cheese (fontina or cheddar)
- Flour and eggs
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients to form a batter.
- Pan-fry spoonfuls until golden brown on each side.
7. Zucchini Stuffed with Cheese
Stuffed zucchini boats offer a fun and flavorful way to enjoy this vegetable. Fill halved zucchini with a cheesy filling of your choice, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Cheese (ricotta or mozzarella)
- Breadcrumbs
- Herbs and spices
Preparation:
- Halve and scoop out zucchini. Mix cheese with spices and fill the halves.
- Top with breadcrumbs and bake until bubbling.
8. Cheesy Zucchini and Chicken Bake
This comforting one-dish meal combines zucchini, chicken, and cheese for a fulfilling dinner idea. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- Sliced zucchini
- Cooked chicken
- Shredded cheese
- Cream or sauces of choice
Preparation:
- Layer cooked chicken and zucchini in a baking dish.
- Top with cheese and bake until warm and bubbly.
9. Zucchini Cheese Soup
A warm, cheesy soup infused with zucchini is perfect for cooler evenings. Blend zucchini with broth, cream, and cheese for a creamy delight.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Broth
- Heavy cream
- Cheese
Preparation:
- Cook zucchini in broth until tender, blend until smooth.
- Stir in cream and cheese until melted.
10. Cheesy Zucchini Pasta
For pasta lovers, a Cheesy Zucchini Pasta dish combines zucchini noodles with creamy cheese sauce for a lighter take on noodles.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini (spiralized)
- Cheese (cream cheese or your favorite)
- Garlic and basil
Preparation:
- Cook zucchini noodles until tender.
- Mix with sautéed garlic and cheese, and heat until creamy.
These recipes showcase how zucchini can shine when paired with cheese, providing delicious meals and sides all summer long. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a quick snack, these cheesy zucchini creations are sure to impress. So grab fresh zucchini and indulge in a cheesy culinary adventure!