Name: Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini, sliced; 2 medium yellow squash, sliced; 4 T chopped fresh basil; 2 T thinly sliced green onion; 1/2 tsp. dried thyme; 3/4 tsp. garlic powder; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re looking for an irresistible way to enjoy your summer squash, this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is about to become your new weeknight staple! This dish perfectly balances tender zucchini and yellow squash with beautiful flecks of fresh basil, all nestled under a gooey, golden blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Its low-carb credentials make it a guilt-free comfort food, and with each bite, you get a burst of bright herbs and melty cheese. Whether you’re harvesting from your garden or raiding the farmer’s market, there’s no easier or tastier way to celebrate the bounty of zucchini season!

Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake comes together with just a handful of wholesome ingredients, each playing a starring role in flavor and texture. The fresh veggies, aromatic herbs, and decadent cheeses make every layer shine for a dish that’s both effortless and impressive.

Zucchini: Choose two medium, firm zucchini for the base; their mild flavor soaks up all the savory, cheesy goodness.
Yellow squash: A sunny counterpart to the zucchini, yellow squash adds color and a subtle sweetness.
Fresh basil: Chopped basil infuses the casserole with summer-bright, peppery notes — use as much or as little as you love.
Green onion: Thin slices bring gentle onion flavor and a bit of crunch.
Dried thyme: Just half a teaspoon deepens the earthy, herby background without overpowering the fresh basil.
Garlic powder: Adds mellow, savory depth without the bite of raw garlic.
Mozzarella cheese: Part-skim or whole milk mozzarella both work for that classic melty, stretchy cheese pull.
Parmesan cheese: Coarsely grated Parmesan brings nutty, salty richness and browns beautifully on top.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the layers to make the flavors pop.
Olive oil spray or non-stick spray: Keeps your casserole from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Give an 8×8-inch or 8×11-inch baking dish a generous spritz of olive oil or non-stick spray. This simple step prevents the cheesy goodness from sticking and makes cleanup later so much easier.

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables and Herbs

Wash your zucchini and yellow squash, then cut them into even slices or half-moons. You’re aiming for consistent pieces, so everything cooks at the same speed. Rinse the basil and dry it with a towel or salad spinner, then finely chop or chiffonade it for the most flavor in every bite. Slice the green onions thin so they blend seamlessly into the casserole.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sliced squash, chopped basil, green onions, dried thyme, garlic powder, half of the mozzarella, and all of the Parmesan (except for a little you’ll save for topping). Get in there and gently toss everything so the cheese and herbs are evenly distributed, and season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish and Start Baking

Spoon the glorious squash, cheese, and herb mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Slide it into the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. At this stage, you’re looking for the veggies to be mostly tender; check by piercing a piece with a fork.

Step 5: Add More Cheese and Finish Baking

Once the squash is just about cooked through, pull the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan (if desired) right over the top. Return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is gorgeously melted and golden brown. Serve your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake piping hot, with cheese bubbling and the kitchen smelling heavenly!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake

Garnishes

Add a flourish of fresh basil leaves or a dusting of cracked black pepper right before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor. For a little added decadence, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan as it comes out of the oven never goes amiss.

Side Dishes

This bake makes a beautiful centerpiece alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a juicy steak. For a lighter meal, serve it with a crisp green salad and some roasted cherry tomatoes — perfect for keeping things fresh and seasonal!

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking individual servings in ramekins for a dinner party, or dish it up in a vibrant casserole for family-style sharing. Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake also makes a gorgeous brunch side — just pair with soft eggs and crusty bread for a weekend treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake left, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep beautifully for up to two days, and the flavors only deepen overnight!

Freezing

While zucchini bakes don’t always freeze perfectly (the veggies can release some liquid when thawed), you can freeze individual cooled portions tightly wrapped in foil and stored in a zip-top bag for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, reheat refrigerated portions in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through, or zap gently in the microwave. If the top needs a little freshening up, a minute under the broiler crisps and browns the cheese again!

FAQs

Can I make Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to make sure everything is hot and bubbly.

Is it possible to use different cheeses in this recipe?

Definitely. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic for that cheesy pull and nutty flavor, feel free to swap in fontina, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of feta for extra tang. Keep in mind that different cheeses can affect the carb count and melting consistency.

Will using only zucchini (no yellow squash) change the bake?

You can absolutely use just zucchini or just yellow squash if that’s what you have on hand. The mix gives you a pretty color contrast, but the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is just as tasty with only one type!

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

Slicing the squash evenly and not overpacking the baking dish helps, as does baking uncovered so excess moisture can evaporate. If you’re worried, sprinkle the squash slices with a little salt, let them sit for 10-15 minutes, and then pat dry before assembling.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, this is a fantastic dish to scale up! Just use a larger baking dish (or two) and add a bit of baking time if needed. It’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks, picnics, or family get-togethers.

Final Thoughts

Brimming with summer flavors and cheesy comfort, Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake is a recipe you’ll want to share with everyone you know. It’s as simple as it is satisfying, and perfect for making the most of your seasonal veggies. Give it a try — your dinner table is about to get a delicious new favorite!