Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds

(Very Detailed, Full Recipe – English)

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Dish Description

Cheesy Baked Zucchini Rounds are oven-roasted zucchini slices layered with olive oil, seasoning, and a generous topping of melted cheese. The zucchini becomes tender and juicy, while the cheese turns golden, bubbly, and lightly crisp, creating a comforting yet light dish. This recipe focuses on moisture control, layering flavor, and perfect browning, so the zucchini never turns soggy.

Ideal for:

• Appetizers

• Side dishes

• Light vegetarian meals

• Low-carb / keto-friendly eating

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Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

Zucchini Base

• 2 medium zucchinis (firm, fresh)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)

Cheese Layer

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (melts smoothly)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone (for depth)

• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan (for crisping)

Seasoning

• ¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)

• ¼ tsp dried oregano or thyme

• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Optional Crunch Layer

• 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley or thyme, finely chopped

• Extra Parmesan

• Flaky sea salt

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini (Critical Step)

1. Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.

2. Wash zucchini and slice into ½-inch (1–1.5 cm) thick rounds.

3. Lay slices on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit 10 minutes.

4. Pat dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

✅ This step prevents watery zucchini and helps the cheese brown properly.

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2. Season the Zucchini

1. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray.

2. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

3. Sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and chili flakes.

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3. Add Cheese (Layered for Best Texture)

1. Mix mozzarella and cheddar together.

2. Top each zucchini slice generously with cheese mixture.

3. Finish with a light sprinkle of Parmesan on each slice.

💡 Parmesan should be on top—it crisps instead of melting flat.

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4. Optional Crunch Layer

• Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.

• Sprinkle lightly over cheese for a crisp topping.

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5. Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, until:

   • Zucchini is fork-tender

   • Cheese is fully melted and bubbling

2. Switch oven to broil / grill for 2–3 minutes to brown the top.

⚠️ Watch closely—cheese can burn fast.

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6. Rest & Finish

• Remove from oven and rest 2–3 minutes.

• Garnish with fresh herbs, extra Parmesan, and flaky salt if desired.

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Texture & Flavor Breakdown

• Zucchini: tender, mildly sweet, not watery

• Cheese: creamy inside, golden-crisp on top

• Flavor profile: savory, garlicky, lightly smoky

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Common Problems & Fixes

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Variations

🧄 Garlic Lover

Add fresh minced garlic under the cheese.

🇮🇹 Italian Style

Add marinara spooned lightly before cheese.

🌶 Spicy Version

Use pepper jack cheese + chili oil drizzle.

🥓 Extra Savory

Top with crispy bacon bits or prosciutto.

🌱 Vegan

Use plant-based cheese + nutritional yeast.

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Serving Suggestions

• With grilled chicken, steak, or fish

• As a snack with garlic yogurt or marinara

• As a low-carb pizza alternative