Looking for a delectable way to enjoy fresh zucchini? Try our irresistible Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini recipe. Perfectly tender zucchini rounds, coated in a rich Parmesan cream sauce and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust – it’s a dish that promises to elevate your dinner table experience.
Ingredients:
4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Layering Zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Creamy Parmesan Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Coating Zucchini: Pour the creamy Parmesan mixture over the zucchini slices, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the zucchini and cream.
Baking Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Finishing Touch: Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Tips:
Garnish Gracefully: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini for a vibrant touch of color and added freshness.
Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a hearty pasta dish to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Presentation Matters: Arrange the zucchini rounds neatly on a serving platter or individual plates, ensuring each portion includes some of the creamy Parmesan sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping.
Hot and Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve the dish hot from the oven. The crispy topping and creamy sauce are at their peak when freshly baked.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. For oven reheating, cover loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning.
Freezing: While zucchini can be frozen, dishes with creamy sauces like this one may experience texture changes upon thawing. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Freshness Tip: For the best taste and texture upon reheating, consider refreshing the dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a touch of fresh herbs before serving again.
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FAQs:
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe instead of Parmesan?
While Parmesan cheese adds a distinctive flavor to this dish, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences for a similar creamy texture.
How can I make this dish more crispy on top?
To achieve a crispier topping, you can increase the amount of breadcrumbs or mix in some finely grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs before sprinkling over the zucchini. Broiling the dish for a minute or two at the end of baking can also help achieve a golden brown crust.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It’s made with fresh zucchini, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and seasonings, making it a delicious option for vegetarians looking for a flavorful side dish or main course.
Conclusion:
In just 40 minutes, you can treat yourself to Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini that’s creamy, crispy, and bursting with flavor. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and experience the joy of culinary indulgence right at your own dinner table.
Enjoy the goodness of zucchini like never before with our Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini recipe. Serve it hot, garnished with parsley, and savor every bite of this delightful dish. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a recipe that promises to become a family favorite in no time.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delightful dish of Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini, featuring tender zucchini rounds enveloped in a decadent Parmesan cream sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy textures and savory flavors, making it an ideal side dish or main course option for any occasion.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the zucchini.
- Combine bread crumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the zucchini.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley for a delightful presentation.
This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
