A hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed vegetable casserole perfect for any season. This loaded zucchini bake features fresh zucchini layered with bell peppers, onions, herbs, three cheeses, and optional protein, all baked until golden and bubbly. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and makes an excellent main dish for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Ingredients
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4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 yellow bell pepper, diced
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1 red onion, chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
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1 cup cooked ground turkey or sausage (optional)
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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2 eggs
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¼ cup chopped basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil
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½ cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Sauté onion in 1 tbsp olive oil for 3 minutes. Add garlic, peppers, and corn. Cook until softened (5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, oregano.
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Toss zucchini slices in remaining olive oil and a pinch of salt.
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Mix ricotta, eggs, basil, half the Parmesan, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
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Layer veggies, zucchini, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and meat in the dish. Repeat layers, ending with zucchini, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
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Bake covered for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
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Rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
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Salting zucchini and patting dry prevents excess moisture.
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You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat or substituting with beans or lentils.
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Freezes well for up to 2 months. Slice and wrap portions individually.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 90mg