Ingredients
3-4 medium zucchini (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
Step 4: Add the thinly sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini starts to soften slightly but still holds its shape. This pre-cooking step is crucial for a tender zuchinis recipe.
Step 5: Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir in the dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Transfer half of the zucchini mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the zucchini layer.
Step 8: Top with the remaining zucchini mixture, spreading it out. This zuchinis recipe layering ensures even cheesy goodness.
Step 9: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. If desired, scatter breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Step 10: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zuchinis recipe is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
Step 11: Remove from oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious zuchinis recipe!
Notes
For a less watery bake, you can lightly salt the sliced zucchini and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels before cooking. This draws out excess moisture. For a gluten-free option, omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6th of recipe)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg