Enjoy a delightful and savory dish with this Baked Zucchini with Cheese Sauce recipe. Combining the natural flavors of zucchini with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is perfect as a side or a main course. The combination of mozzarella cheese, cream, and a touch of tomato sauce creates a delectable sauce that pairs wonderfully with the tender, fried zucchini.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients: • 3 zucchini • Vegetable oil (for frying) • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese • 1/2 cup cream (at least 20% fat) • 2 tablespoons tomato sauce • 5 garlic cloves, minced • 2/3 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika • Black pepper, to taste • Red pepper flakes, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice the zucchini into rounds or desired shapes.
- Fry the Zucchini:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped zucchini to the pan.
- Fry the zucchini on both sides for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup cream, 2 tablespoons tomato sauce, and the minced garlic.
- Add 2/3 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika, and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Bake the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 428°F (220°C).
- Transfer the fried zucchini to a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the zucchini, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Final Touch:
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the incredibly tasty zucchini dish that is even tastier than meat!
Optional:
- Garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.
- For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Ingredient Spotlight
Key Ingredients:
- Zucchini: Provides a tender and slightly sweet base for the dish. When fried, it develops a delicious golden crust.
- Mozzarella Cheese and Cream: Create a rich, creamy sauce that enhances the zucchini’s natural flavors.
- Tomato Sauce: Adds a slight tang and depth to the cheese sauce.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- Seasonings: Salt, sweet paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes add layers of flavor and a hint of spice.
Cooking Tips
- Preparing Zucchini: Slice the zucchini into even rounds or desired shapes to ensure uniform cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture before frying.
- Frying: Fry the zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Cheese Sauce: Ensure the mozzarella is well incorporated into the cream and tomato sauce mixture for a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to the specified temperature to ensure the cheese sauce melts evenly and becomes bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Baked Zucchini with Cheese Sauce hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or as a side dish to grilled meats. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
- Protein: High protein content from the mozzarella cheese
- Fat: Contains healthy fats from the cream and vegetable oil
- Carbohydrates: Moderate, providing energy from the zucchini and tomato sauce
Variations
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences:
- Cheese Variations: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Additional Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the zucchini for a more complex vegetable bake.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicier version.
Conclusion
This Baked Zucchini with Cheese Sauce is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Combining the tender texture of zucchini with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish with family and friends, and savor the comforting flavors of homemade goodness.