Baked Zucchini with Mozzarella
Tender zucchini rounds are baked with garlic seasoning, then topped with melted mozzarella for a perfectly golden, cheesy finish. This simple yet flavorful side dish is ready in under 25 minutes, making it ideal for quick dinners or meal prep.
Equipment
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 cutting board
- 1 large baking sheet
- 1 oven
- 1 spatula or tongs
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini or about 5 small, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 teaspoon garlic seasoning blend such as Johnny’s or any garlic-herb mix
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or a mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and cheddar
Instructions
- Prep Your Zucchini: Start by thoroughly washing the zucchini under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Using a sharp knife and a cutting board, carefully slice the zucchini into evenly thick rounds, about ½-inch each. Even slices ensure consistent baking, so take your time to make them as uniform as possible.
- Arrange Zucchini on Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping. This allows each piece to cook evenly and develop a tender yet slightly crisp texture. Overcrowding the pan can cause the zucchini to steam instead of bake.
- Season Zucchini Evenly: Sprinkle your zucchini rounds with garlic seasoning blend and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers or a small spoon to gently distribute the seasoning over every slice, making sure each piece is lightly coated. The seasoning adds a savory depth and aromatic flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the zucchini.
- Bake Until Crisp-Tender: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking sheet in the center of the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye on the zucchini after 10 minutes; you want them to be soft enough to pierce easily with a fork but still hold their shape. This step ensures the zucchini is perfectly tender before adding cheese.
- Add Cheese Topping: Once the zucchini is baked, carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven using oven mitts. Immediately sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (or cheese blend) evenly over the zucchini slices. Be generous but balanced—each slice should have a good layer of cheese without overwhelming the zucchini.
- Broil for Golden Perfection: Switch your oven setting to broil. Return the baking sheet to the oven, keeping it in the center rack rather than the top, to avoid burning. Broil the zucchini for 3–5 minutes, watching closely as the cheese melts, bubbles, and begins to turn a light golden brown. The broiling process adds a crisp, flavorful finish to the cheese while keeping the zucchini tender underneath.
- Remove and Rest: Once the cheese is perfectly bubbly and lightly browned, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the zucchini rest for a minute or two—this helps the cheese set slightly and makes the slices easier to handle. This short rest also allows the flavors to settle and intensify.
- Serve and Enjoy: Use a spatula or tongs to transfer the zucchini slices to a serving platter. Serve warm as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. This dish is also excellent for meal prep and reheats beautifully without losing its flavor or texture. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil if desired for a vibrant finishing touch.
Notes
- For best results, select medium-sized zucchini that are firm and free of blemishes. Smaller zucchini tend to be sweeter and cook faster, while larger ones may need slightly longer baking.
- Uniform slicing ensures even cooking and a consistent texture. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve perfectly even rounds.
- Don’t skip the broil step—it gives the cheese a beautiful golden finish and enhances flavor. Keep a close eye, as cheese can brown quickly.
- This recipe is highly versatile. You can swap mozzarella with other mild, melting cheeses like provolone, fontina, or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. If you like a bit more spice, a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika adds a subtle kick.
