This Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Vegetable Bake is a colorful dish filled with tender veggies and melted cheese. It’s simple to make and perfect for any meal!
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese and fresh vegetables? I love serving this bake as a side, and sometimes I sneak a piece before dinner—shhh, it’s our little secret! 🤫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star of this dish, adding moisture and lightness. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash works great too!
Eggs: They bind everything together and create a lovely texture. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup for each egg).
Cheese: I love a sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. Feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese can be used instead.
Ham or Bacon: This ingredient adds a savory touch. You can skip it for a vegetarian option or use cooked sausage or turkey if you prefer. Black beans are also a delicious substitute!
How Do You Properly Squeeze Zucchini?
Squeezing out excess moisture from zucchini is key to avoiding a soggy bake. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater.
- Transfer the grated zucchini to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Gather the corners of the towel, twist, and squeeze the zucchini tightly to release the water.
- You’ll be amazed at how much liquid comes out! Aim to get it as dry as possible for better texture.
Doing this simple step makes a big difference in your bake! Enjoy the delightful flavors!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Vegetable Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetable Base:
- 3 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon (optional for extra flavor)
Binding Mixture:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Vegetable Bake will take around 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 30-40 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about an hour of time from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious way to use fresh vegetables!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater. Then, take the grated zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is super important to keep your bake from getting soggy!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. If you’re adding ham or bacon, throw that in now and cook for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well-beaten. Then, add the shredded cheese, grated Parmesan, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix! After that, gently fold in the grated zucchini and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Make sure everything is combined evenly.
5. Bake It:
Pour your mixture into the prepared baking tray and spread it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly. Then, cut it into squares. Serve it warm, and enjoy your cheesy, delicious zucchini and vegetable bake!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Vegetable Bake
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! You can mix in other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots. Just be sure to adjust the moisture by squeezing out excess water from any watery veggies like spinach.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mixture and assemble the bake, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re using it straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Serve With This Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or pasta!
