Mediterranean One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 3–4
This Mediterranean One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender roasted zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and melted cheese in one simple pan. It’s a perfect weeknight side or light main course that captures the fresh and sunny flavors of the Mediterranean. With hints of garlic, oregano, and basil, it’s both comforting and wholesome — and requires almost no cleanup.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tsp dried oregano
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Set the oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly grease a baking dish or pan with olive oil.
Prepare the zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano until evenly coated.
Assemble the dish:
Spread the zucchini evenly in the baking pan. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top.
Add cheese:
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the vegetables.
Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Finish and serve:
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips:
Slice evenly: Cut the zucchini into uniform slices so they cook at the same rate and stay tender without turning mushy.
Drain excess moisture: If your zucchini releases too much water, lightly salt it first and let it sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels before baking to keep the dish from becoming watery.
Use high heat: Baking at 200°C (400°F) helps the edges of the zucchini caramelize and the cheese brown nicely.
Cheese layering tip: For the best melt, layer mozzarella first, then sprinkle Parmesan on top — it creates a golden crust.
Watch the timing: Keep an eye on the dish near the end of baking; once the cheese turns golden and bubbly, it’s ready.
Variations:
Add protein: Include cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Mix up the cheese: Try feta, provolone, or goat cheese for different textures and Mediterranean flavors.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil before serving for a little heat.
Boost the flavor: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and herbs on top before baking for a crispier finish.
Extra vegetables: Add thin slices of red onion, bell peppers, or eggplant to make it heartier.
Low-carb casserole: For a complete low-carb meal, mix in cooked ground turkey or lentils before baking.
Serving Ideas:
Serve as a side dish with grilled fish, chicken, or steak.
Enjoy it as a vegetarian main with a side of quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or lemon juice just before serving for a bright finishing touch.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can assemble everything in the baking dish a few hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it directly — just add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: How do I keep the zucchini from getting soggy?
A: Salt the zucchini slices before baking and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. Pat them dry, then toss with olive oil and seasonings before baking.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Definitely. Use a dairy-free mozzarella or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
Q: What can I use instead of zucchini?
A: You can substitute with yellow squash, eggplant, or a mix of both for a similar texture and flavor profile.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes. It reheats well in the oven or air fryer, making it great for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Nutrition
(per serving, serves 4)
Calories: 210
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 580mg
(Approximate values; may vary based on cheese type and oil used.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean One Pan Baked Zucchini Cheese is a perfect mix of simplicity and flavor. The tender zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and golden, bubbling cheese come together in one dish that’s both light and satisfying.
It’s an easy go-to recipe when you want something fresh yet comforting — great as a side for grilled meats, pasta, or even as a vegetarian main. With its Mediterranean herbs, minimal prep, and one-pan convenience, this dish brings a burst of sunshine and flavor to your table any day of the week.