Baked Zucchini Parmesan

Name: Baked Zucchini Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking

I absolutely love the way this Baked Zucchini Parmesan turns a humble vegetable into something truly irresistible. With layers of cheesy goodness and a crispy topping, it's one of my go-to dishes for both family dinners and entertaining friends. The best part? It's incredibly simple to whip up, using only a few ingredients. Whether you're a zucchini fan or just looking for a new way to enjoy veggies, this recipe is a game changer that brings comfort to any table.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-24T17:19:18.703Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of Baked Zucchini Parmesan, I was skeptical about how such a simple dish could be so satisfying. After trying it out, I was pleasantly surprised! The layers of zucchini, marinara sauce, and melty cheese create a comforting harmony that's just delightful.

I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan and a good quality marinara sauce for the best results. Trust me, the effort you put into preparing those layers pays off when you take that first bite—it's pure bliss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory layers of cheesy goodness
A crowd-pleaser that makes vegetables shine
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for this Baked Zucchini Parmesan, look for firm, shiny specimens without blemishes. Young zucchinis, about 6 to 8 inches long, are ideal as they're tender yet flavorful. If you notice larger zucchinis, opt for those that are lighter in color and avoid any that feel soft or have large seeds, as they tend to be more bitter and less enjoyable in this dish.

If you’re aiming for a bit of color, consider using a combination of green and yellow zucchinis. They not only offer visual appeal but also vary slightly in taste, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. Remember, freshness directly impacts flavor; use zucchinis within a week of purchase for the best taste.

Layering for Optimal Flavor

Layering the ingredients properly is crucial for achieving an even distribution of flavors. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce to keep the bottom from becoming soggy; this also ensures that the zucchini remains flavorful throughout. After adding the first zucchini layer, take care to spread sauce gently over each subsequent layer, ensuring that every slice is kissed by both marinara and cheese.

Don’t skimp on the cheeses! The mozzarella adds a gooey, melty texture, while the Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty flavor and a crispy finish when baked. Be sure to grate your cheeses fresh for the best texture and taste—pre-shredded varieties often contain stabilizers that can affect melting.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking at 375°F (190°C) is key to achieving that perfect balance between a soft center and a crispy topping. Keep an eye on the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking—you're looking for a golden brown crust that bubbles slightly. If the top isn’t browning as desired, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end can add that extra touch of crispiness, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Allowing the baked zucchini to rest before serving is an important step. It gives the cheese time to set, making it easier to slice and serve without everything falling apart. Staying patient for those 5 minutes ensures each bite is a delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this delicious Baked Zucchini Parmesan.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Make sure to have all of your ingredients ready before you begin baking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Baked Zucchini Parmesan come to life.

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with a paper towel.

Layer the Ingredients

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the zucchini slices, followed by another layer of marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, sauce, and cheeses.

Add Breadcrumbs

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with dried oregano and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top layer of cheese.

Bake

Lightly spray the top with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm as a delicious side or a light main course!

Enjoy your delicious Baked Zucchini Parmesan!

Pro Tips

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh basil in between the layers.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Zucchini Parmesan can be served as an elegant side dish or a light vegetarian main course. Pair it with a fresh garden salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra marinara sauce. You might even serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal, adding a veggie boost with minimal effort.

For a family-friendly option, consider cutting the baked dish into squares and serving it in a sandwich with a side of marinara for dipping, transforming it into a fun meal that kids will love. This presentation can make eating vegetables exciting and appealing.

Make-Ahead Options

This recipe is conveniently versatile when it comes to meal prepping. You can assemble the Baked Zucchini Parmesan a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just remember to spray the top with olive oil before placing it in the oven; this ensures a nice crispiness on the surface once baked.

If you have leftovers, they're great for meal prep! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days; just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best results. Alternatively, you can freeze portions for up to three months. Just don't forget to add a little extra time in the oven when baking from frozen!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your zucchini is too watery, try salting your slices longer before cooking. The salt helps draw out moisture that could make the dish soggy. Additionally, squeezing the slices in a paper towel can be an effective way to further remove excess liquid before layering.

For those who may want a gluten-free option, substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs can easily accommodate dietary needs without compromising the texture or flavor of the dish. Alternatively, ground almonds or finely crushed rice can also serve as great substitutes for added crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to mix in eggplant or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

→ How long does Baked Zucchini Parmesan last?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed when you're ready to enjoy.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warm throughout.