Cheesy Garlic Butter Zucchini Bake

Description

Discover a mouthwatering way to elevate your vegetable side dishes with this Cheesy Garlic Butter Zucchini Bake. Featuring thin rounds of tender zucchini layered in a rich garlic butter sauce, blanketed with melted cheese, and finished with a golden, toasted breadcrumb crust, this casserole is pure comfort food. It balances a savory, aromatic crunch on top with a melt-in-your-mouth tender center. Quick to assemble and naturally low-carb friendly, it makes for an incredible side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or low-carb meal prep.

Ingredients & Measurements

• Zucchini: 4 medium-sized zucchinis (washed, trimmed, and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds)

• Butter: 4 tablespoons (unsalted, melted)

• Garlic: 3 cloves (minced or finely grated)

• Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup (optional, for extra richness)

• Mozzarella Cheese: 1.5 cups (shredded, for a gooey, stretchy layer)

• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (freshly grated for a sharp, savory flavor)

• Breadcrumbs: 1/3 cup (panko or regular breadcrumbs for a crispy topping)

• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon

• Salt & Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon each (or to taste)

• Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or casserole pan.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

3. Arrange the Zucchini: Layer the sliced zucchini rounds evenly across the prepared baking pan, slightly overlapping them to cover the surface.

4. Coat with Flavor: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the zucchini slices, ensuring every piece gets lightly coated.

5. Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese uniformly across the top. Finish with an even dusting of breadcrumbs for that golden-brown crunch.

6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the zucchini is tender, the cheese is bubbling, and the top is deeply golden brown. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

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• Related Questions:

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