Zucchini Cheesy Bread

Zucchini Cheesy Bread is a savory, moist bread that combines the light, fresh flavor of zucchini with the richness of melted cheese. The zucchini keeps the bread soft and tender, while the cheese adds a deliciously savory flavor and a golden, cheesy crust. It’s the perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or just enjoyed on its own with a spread of butter.

I first made this bread when I was looking for a way to use up extra zucchini from the garden, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise. The bread baked up beautifully, with a golden top and a soft, cheesy interior that was so satisfying. What I love most about this recipe is how it combines the best of both worlds—savory cheese and fresh zucchini—and how easy it is to make.

What’s great about Zucchini Cheesy Bread is how versatile it is. You can use it as a side for dinner, serve it as a snack, or even enjoy it for breakfast. You can also play around with the types of cheese you use, adding sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for different flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a get-together, this bread will definitely be a hit!

Perfect for:

Low-carb and keto-friendly diets
Snack time or appetizers
Pairing with soups and salads
Cheese and zucchini lovers
A fun way to sneak in veggies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Zucchini Cheesy Bread will become a favorite in your kitchen:

Cheesy Goodness: A deliciously gooey, cheesy center with a golden crust.
Crispy and Flavorful: Baked to perfection with a crisp exterior and tender inside.
Low-Carb Alternative: A perfect swap for traditional garlic bread.
Nutritious and Delicious: Zucchini adds fiber, vitamins, and moisture.
Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to recipe.
Versatile Pairing: Goes well with soups, salads, and pasta dishes.
Great for Snacking: Enjoy it as a tasty, satisfying snack.
Gluten-Free Option: Can be made gluten-free with almond or coconut flour.
Customizable Flavors: Experiment with different cheeses and seasonings.
Kid-Approved: A fun way to introduce more veggies into meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 35 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Cheesy Bread:

2 cups shredded zucchini
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup almond flour (or substitute all-purpose flour)

For the Topping:

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Ingredient Highlights

Zucchini: Keeps the bread moist while adding nutrients.
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a gooey, melty texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
Garlic Powder & Oregano: Infuse the bread with classic Italian flavors.
Almond Flour: A low-carb alternative for a gluten-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini Mixture:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Drain the Zucchini: Place shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, egg, mozzarella, parmesan, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and almond flour. Stir until well combined.

Shape and Bake:

Form the Dough: Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Bake: Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

Add Toppings and Finish:

Add More Cheese: Sprinkle the additional mozzarella on top.
Bake Again: Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve:

Slice and Enjoy: Cut into sticks or squares and serve warm.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Zucchini Cheesy Bread:

As a Side Dish: Pair with soups, pasta, or grilled meats.
With Marinara Sauce: Serve with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
With Garlic Butter: Drizzle with melted garlic butter for extra flavor.
On a Charcuterie Board: Add to a spread of cheeses, meats, and veggies.
For Breakfast: Top with a fried egg for a savory breakfast.
With Salad: Complement a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
For Game Day Snacks: Serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
As a Pizza Base: Use as a crust for a low-carb pizza.
With Guacamole: Enjoy with avocado-based dips.
For a Party Platter: Arrange with other bite-sized appetizers.

Additional Tips

Grate Zucchini Well: To avoid excess moisture, use a fine grater for the zucchini. You can also squeeze out extra water with a clean kitchen towel before adding it to the batter.
Use Fresh Herbs: For added flavor, mix in fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano. They’ll give your bread a fresh, aromatic boost.
Try Different Cheeses: Swap the cheddar for other melty cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend for a unique twist.
Add Garlic: For an extra savory kick, incorporate some minced garlic or garlic powder into the batter.
Incorporate Whole Wheat Flour: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, swap in whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour.
Season with Spices: A sprinkle of Italian seasoning, paprika, or even red pepper flakes will elevate the flavor profile.
Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter gently to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can result in a denser texture.
Top with More Cheese: Before baking, sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top for a melty, crispy crust.
Make It Vegan: Substitute the cheese for a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs or applesauce in place of the eggs for a dairy-free, egg-free version.
Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the structure set, making for cleaner slices.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Cheesy Bread: Add more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
Italian-Style: Use basil and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Extra Cheesy: Increase the amount of cheese for a gooier result.
Gluten-Free Version: Stick with almond or coconut flour.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and an egg substitute.
Pesto Cheesy Bread: Spread a layer of pesto before baking.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
Cheddar and Bacon: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon and cheddar cheese.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and black olives.
Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning and serve with salsa.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet: For even baking.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Cheese Grater: For freshly shredded cheese.
Kitchen Towel: To squeeze excess water from zucchini.
Spatula: For spreading and slicing.

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of cheese for Zucchini Cheesy Bread?
Yes! You can swap out the cheese for any kind you prefer. Try mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of both for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze Zucchini Cheesy Bread?
Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months.
How do I store Zucchini Cheesy Bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I substitute zucchini with another vegetable?
Yes! You can try using shredded carrots, sweet potatoes, or even cauliflower as a substitute for zucchini.
Is this bread gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free by default, but you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute to make it gluten-free.
How can I make Zucchini Cheesy Bread less oily?
To reduce the moisture, make sure to squeeze out excess water from the zucchini before adding it to the batter.
Can I make this bread without eggs?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs or a chia egg as a vegan alternative.
How do I know when the Zucchini Cheesy Bread is done?
When the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, the bread is ready.
Can I add herbs or spices to the bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add garlic powder, oregano, basil, or any seasoning you like to enhance the flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy kick!

Conclusion

Zucchini Cheesy Bread is a savory, soft loaf that combines the freshness of zucchini with the richness of melted cheese, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful bread. The zucchini adds a subtle texture and moisture, while the cheese melts throughout, creating pockets of gooey goodness in every bite. Whether enjoyed warm with a little butter or served alongside a hearty soup or salad, this bread is a perfect addition to any meal.

This recipe is easy to make and a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without compromising on taste. You can also add herbs or spices to customize the flavor and make it your own. With its savory flavor and cheesy goodness, Zucchini Cheesy Bread is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique twist on traditional bread.

I can’t wait to see how your Zucchini Cheesy Bread turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this bread your own!