This Easy Low-Carb Zucchini Bake is a healthy twist on comfort food! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and spices, it’s a tasty dish that’s also gluten-free.
I love how this bake is simple to whip up and filled with cheesy goodness. Perfect as a side dish or even a light main course. Plus, it makes my house smell amazing! 🥒💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! If zucchini isn’t available, you could try yellow squash or even eggplant. Just remember to slice them similarly for even cooking.
Cheese: I use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, cashew cheese or nutritional yeast can work. You can also switch the cheddar for a dairy-free version!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. For a lighter option, you could substitute it with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream. Both will still keep it creamy!
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil, but be aware of the flavor difference.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Zucchini for This Bake?
Preparing zucchini can be tricky since it holds a lot of water. To prevent a soggy bake, here’s how to handle it:
- After slicing the zucchini, sprinkle it lightly with salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
- Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels before mixing it into your other ingredients.
- Make sure it’s evenly mixed with the egg and cheeses to bind everything well.
These steps will ensure your zucchini bake is perfectly set and not too watery! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Low-Carb Zucchini Bake – Gluten-Free
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 large egg (to bind the bake)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious zucchini bake will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dish:
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some olive oil or a non-stick spray. This will keep your bake from sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Seasoning the Zucchini:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced zucchinis and drizzle with olive oil. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, along with some salt and pepper. Toss everything well to ensure each slice is nicely coated with the flavors!
3. Mixing the Egg and Cream:
In another bowl, beat the large egg and heavy cream (or half-and-half) together until well combined. This will help bind all the ingredients together in the bake.
4. Combining the Ingredients:
Now, add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and cheddar cheese (if using) to the zucchini mixture. Pour the egg and cream mixture over everything, and gently stir it all together until everything is well combined.
5. Baking the Zucchini Bake:
Pour the zucchini mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serving Time:
Once it’s done, take the zucchini bake out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This allows it to set up a bit more, making it easier to serve. After that, it’s time to dig in!
Enjoy this delicious, cheesy, low-carb, and gluten-free zucchini bake! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as a filling vegetarian main dish. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Low-Carb Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. You can use provolone, gouda, or even feta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that using lower-fat cheeses may affect the creaminess of the bake.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives such as cashew cheese or nutritional yeast. For the heavy cream, you can use unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a creamy texture!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may add a splash of milk or cream to revive the creaminess if needed!