Double Cheese And Zucchini Bake
A cheesy zucchini bake with a crispy bread crumb topping, rich flavors of Monterey Jack and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a heavy skillet.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add sliced zucchini; cook until just tender, about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup bread crumbs, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and combine with whipping cream.
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the zucchini in the dish.
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs over the top.
- Dot with the remaining 1/4 cup butter.
- Bake until golden brown, about 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture. If you're looking to lighten the dish, substitute half of the Monterey Jack cheese with a lower-fat cheese. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the flavor. This recipe can be easily adapted for vegetarian recipes by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This Double Cheese and Zucchini Bake pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a delightful side dish for potlucks or family gatherings, complementing other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Double Cheese And Zucchini Bake contains roughly 324 calories, with 9g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1400mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can also add depth; just ensure they melt well together.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the zucchini mixture and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready to serve.
Can I freeze the Double Cheese and Zucchini Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).