Baked Zucchini With Cheddar Cheese

Description

✨ This delightful Baked Zucchini With Cheddar Cheese recipe is a true gem from lovewithrecipes.com! Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, this dish combines the fresh, tender goodness of zucchini with the rich, savory flavors of cheddar cheese and a hint of Dijon mustard. Whether you’re preparing for a potluck or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its easy preparation and delicious results. 🍽️✨

Cooking and Preparation Times

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 125.4 kcal
• Fat: 8.4 g
• Saturated Fat: 4.6 g
• Cholesterol: 81.8 mg
• Sodium: 170.8 mg
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Sugar: 3.6 g
• Protein: 8.5 g

Ingredients

• 2 zucchini, sliced 🍃
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 egg, beaten 🥚
• 1 green onion, finely chopped 🌿
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
• 1/8 teaspoon white pepper

Recipe Servings

• Servings: 3

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

First, take your fresh, vibrant zucchini and slice them into thin rounds. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully. Place the sliced zucchini into a large bowl, ready to be combined with the other ingredients. 🌟

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: the ground nutmeg, beaten egg, finely chopped green onion, Dijon mustard, shredded cheddar cheese, and white pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a cohesive mixture. This combination of flavors will add a delightful depth to the dish, with the nutmeg providing a warm undertone and the Dijon mustard adding a subtle tang. 🥄

Step 3: Toss and Combine

Pour the mixed ingredients over the sliced zucchini in the large bowl. Toss everything well to ensure each zucchini slice is coated with the flavorful mixture. This step is crucial as it helps in distributing the taste evenly across all the zucchini slices, ensuring every bite is a burst of deliciousness. 🍴

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Lightly oil a 2-quart casserole dish. This will prevent the zucchini from sticking to the dish and make cleaning up a breeze. Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will allow it to bake uniformly, giving you perfectly cooked zucchini with a delightful cheesy crust. 🍲

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape. The cheese will have melted into a deliciously gooey topping, making this dish absolutely irresistible. 🕒

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Zucchini With Cheddar Cheese can be served as a side dish or a light main course. Here are some ideas to complement your dish:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a balanced meal. The fresh zucchini and rich cheese will complement the savory meat perfectly.
• As a Main Course: Pair with a light salad and some crusty bread for a delightful lunch or dinner. The combination of textures and flavors will leave you satisfied yet wanting more.
• Potluck Star: This dish is perfect for potlucks or gatherings. It’s easy to transport and reheat, making it a convenient and popular choice among guests.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for different tastes.
• Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the mix.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs such as thyme, basil, or parsley can add a burst of freshness and additional layers of flavor.

Conclusion

This Baked Zucchini With Cheddar Cheese recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal with minimal effort. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends at a potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, savory delight! 🍴🧀🌿