🥒🍽️ Loaded Zucchini Bake: A Flavorful, Healthy Dish for Any Occasion

Zucchini is one of those versatile vegetables that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. If you’re looking for a way to turn this humble veggie into something spectacular, Loaded Zucchini Bake is the answer! It’s a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal — from a weeknight dinner to a potluck or a light summer gathering.

This recipe combines tender zucchini with savory ingredients like melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a blend of spices, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this easy, healthy, and utterly delicious bake!

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🛒 Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini (about 4 cups of sliced zucchini)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (or turkey bacon for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)

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🔪 Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with non-stick spray or olive oil.
2. Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. If you prefer, you can also halve the zucchini lengthwise and then slice.
3. Optional: To avoid excess moisture, sprinkle a little salt over the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps release some of the water. Pat dry with a paper towel.

2. Make the Creamy Filling

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, onion, garlic, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until everything is smooth and well-combined.
2. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, saving a little bit of mozzarella for topping.

3. Assemble the Bake

1. Layer half of the zucchini slices at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Spread half of the creamy mixture over the zucchini slices and sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon on top.
3. Repeat with the remaining zucchini, followed by the rest of the creamy filling, and top with the remaining bacon.

4. Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)

1. If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of the dish and then sprinkle a bit more mozzarella cheese over the breadcrumbs.

5. Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
2. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to get golden and crispy.
3. Once it’s done, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving

4. 6. Garnish and Serve

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.

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   🍴 Why You’ll Love This Loaded Zucchini Bake

   • Healthy and Nutritious: Zucchini is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making this bake a light and healthy option. You can enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness without feeling guilty!
   • Family-Friendly: This dish is a great way to sneak some veggies into picky eaters’ diets, especially with that rich, creamy topping.
   • Customizable: Want to make it vegetarian? Skip the bacon and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Looking for more protein? Try adding cooked chicken or turkey sausage.
   • Versatile: Serve this bake as a main course, or use it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or a simple salad.

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   🍽️ Serving Suggestions

   • As a Main Dish: Enjoy it as a light dinner or lunch paired with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad.
   • As a Side: It’s an excellent side dish for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish.
   • Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the fridge for a day or two, and then baked when ready to serve.

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   🥄 Final Thoughts

   This Loaded Zucchini Bake is everything you want in a meal — cheesy, comforting, and full of flavor, yet light and healthy. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables or just want a fresh, savory twist on traditional casseroles, this recipe checks all the boxes.

   It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. So grab some zucchini, fire up the oven, and get ready for a flavorful meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

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   Want to experiment with other fillings or add a twist with herbs and spices? Let me know — I’ve got plenty of ideas for this versatile dish!