Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything up to the first bake. Store covered in the fridge for a few hours, then bake when ready. Add the final cheese topping just before the second bake for the best melt and texture.

Can I use frozen zucchini?

You can, but it’s best to thaw and drain it thoroughly. Frozen zucchini releases more moisture, so your bake might turn out wetter. For the best texture, fresh is preferred.

What cheeses work best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are the go-to duo here, but feel free to sub in white cheddar, Gruyère, or Fontina—anything that melts well and brings big flavor.

Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake: Crispy, Creamy, and Low-Carb

Name: Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake: Simple, Flavorful & Low-Carb
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini (sliced or half-moon slices); 2 medium yellow squash (sliced or half-moon slices); 4 tbsp chopped fresh basil; 2 tbsp thinly sliced green onion; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 3/4 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (divided); 1/2 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping); Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Description

An easy, cheesy zucchini bake made with summer squash, basil, and a blend of melty mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for low-carb dinners, brunch, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini (sliced or half-moon slices)

2 medium yellow squash (sliced or half-moon slices)

4 tbsp chopped fresh basil

2 tbsp thinly sliced green onion

1/2 tsp dried thyme

3/4 tsp garlic powder

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (divided)

1/2 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease an 8″x8″ or 8″x11″ baking dish.

2. Wash and slice zucchini and squash.

3. Chop fresh basil and slice green onions.

4. In a bowl, combine squash, basil, green onion, thyme, garlic powder, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and 1/2 cup Parmesan.

5. Season with salt and pepper and mix well.

6. Spread mixture evenly in baking dish and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes.

7. Top with remaining mozzarella and extra Parmesan if using.

8. Bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and browned.

9. Let rest before serving for cleaner slices.

Notes

This dish keeps well for one day in the fridge and can be reheated in the oven.

Use fresh basil for brighter flavor; dried basil can be subbed if needed.

For a lower-fat version, use low-fat cheese varieties.

You can sub in other white melting cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 207
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 535mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 40mg