Description
This Zucchini Potato Bake is a delicious and comforting layered vegetable casserole featuring thinly sliced zucchini and potatoes baked with mozzarella, Parmesan, and a creamy sauce. It’s a perfect vegetarian and gluten-free side dish with a golden cheesy crust and tender veggies beneath.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish. This prevents sticking and allows even cooking.
- Toss Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchini, potatoes, and onion. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.
- Layer Vegetables and Cheese: Arrange half of the coated vegetables in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining vegetables and top with the remaining cheeses, creating beautiful layers.
- Add Cream: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the vegetable and cheese layers, which helps meld the ingredients and add richness during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake for 30 minutes. This step gently cooks the vegetables through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the bake to sit for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven to set. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked bacon or ham between the vegetable layers for extra flavor and protein.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the bake will be less rich.
- Using a mandoline slicer helps create thin, even slices for vegetables, ensuring they cook uniformly.
