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Easy Loaded Zucchini Bake Recipe for Cheesy Comfort Recipe

Easy Loaded Zucchini Bake Recipe for Cheesy Comfort Recipe

4.9 from 13 reviews

This Easy Loaded Zucchini Bake is a cheesy, comforting dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with fresh zucchini, tomatoes, crispy bacon, and a blend of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses, this casserole brings flavorful layers with a hint of garlic and oregano. It’s the ideal way to enjoy a vegetable-forward dish that feels indulgent and hearty, baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 34 medium-sized zucchini, sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 white onion, chopped

Meat

  • 46 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Dairy

  • 1 block sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 8 oz)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 stick of butter, melted (about 4 tablespoons)

Oils & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the zucchini mixture evenly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add sliced zucchini, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and crumbled cooked bacon. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the seasonings and bacon evenly.
  3. Add Oils and Butter: Drizzle the olive oil and melted butter over the vegetable and bacon mixture. Toss well to ensure all pieces are coated, which helps with flavor and moisture during baking.
  4. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish, and then transfer the combined mixture into it, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
  5. Add Cheeses: Generously top the mixture with shredded sharp cheddar cheese followed by the grated parmesan, layering them evenly to create a rich, cheesy crust.
  6. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set slightly for easier slicing and to enjoy the full depth of flavors.

Notes

  • You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
  • Using fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated will enhance the dish’s taste.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure all seasonings and cheeses are gluten-free certified.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini bake, cheesy zucchini casserole, loaded zucchini recipe, comfort food, baked vegetable dish, easy zucchini side