Easy Zucchini Parmesan

Enjoy a delicious and easy zucchini parmesan casserole. Layers of roasted zucchini, tomato sauce, and cheesy Parmesan make for a tasty side dish.

Prep Time10

Cook Time30

Cooling Time5

Total Time45

Servings: servings

Calories: 180kcal

2 pounds zucchini ends trimmed, halved crosswise, and sliced thinly (1/3 to 1/4 inch thick).
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup Parmesan
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Get Recipe Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 450℉ and line two sheet pans with parchment for easy clean-up.

Prepare the zucchini slices, season with salt and pepper on both sides, and toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Arrange slices on the prepared baking sheets sprinkle with red pepper flakes, and roast until lightly golden and fork tender; about 10-12 minutes. Drain on paper towels and pat dry, eliminating as much moisture as possible from the zucchini strips.
Reduce oven temperature to 375℉.

While the zucchini is roasting, add the jarred tomato sauce into a saucepan. Stir in seasonings, garlic, and butter. Heat and stir over medium heat until the butter melts. Set aside.

Spread 1/4 cup tomato sauce on the bottom of a 2-quart baking dish. Arrange 1/3 of the zucchini in an even layer over the sauce—spoon 1/3 of the remaining sauce over the zucchini and top with 1/4 cup Parmesan. Repeat this layer 2 more times, ending with 1/4 cup Parmesan. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes or until bubbling and browned on top. Remove from the oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with fresh basil or parsley.

Making Ahead: Roast the zucchini the day before and store it covered in the refrigerator.

Basil: I'm partial to adding basil to this dish because it brings tremendous flavor. If possible, garnish with fresh basil for a beautiful flavor.

Tomato Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce. To add protein, simply add cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken to the sauce.

Browning the Top: If you want the top of the casserole to be more browned, broil on high for a few minutes, but keep your eye on it—it browns very quickly.