A Healthy and Flavorful Snack or Side
Quick Description
These Cheese-Stuffed Zucchini Bites are a low-carb, delicious snack that combines fresh zucchini with gooey cheese. Baked to perfection, they make a great appetizer, side dish, or healthy snack. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, theyโre perfect for anyone looking for a lighter alternative to traditional cheesy snacks.
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15โ20 minutes
- Total Time: 25โ30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients List
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
- ยผ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for greasing)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish, such as parsley or thyme)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Slice the zucchini into ยฝ-inch thick rounds.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out a little of the flesh from the center of each zucchini slice, leaving a border to hold the filling.
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Fill each zucchini slice with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to make sure the cheese sticks.
3. Bake the Zucchini Bites:
- Arrange the stuffed zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish.
- Lightly spray the zucchini with olive oil to help with browning and crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15โ20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is tender and slightly golden.
4. Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
Additional Notes
- Flavor Variations: Add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese for a spicy kick.
- Storage: These zucchini bites are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to regain some crispness.
Dietary Info
โ
Low-carb
โ
Keto-friendly
โ
Vegetarian
Contains dairy.
Brief Introduction
These Cheese-Stuffed Zucchini Bites are the perfect way to enjoy cheese without the carbs. Theyโre easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and provide a satisfying bite-sized snack thatโs great for any occasion. The combination of tender zucchini and gooey melted cheese will have everyone coming back for more!
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese filling for a more aromatic flavor.
- Meat Lovers: If youโre craving protein, add cooked ground beef or turkey to the cheese mixture for a heartier bite.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is already gluten-free, but you can add a bit of almond flour or coconut flour if you want a firmer texture.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed zucchini bites before baking. Once frozen, bake directly from the freezer for about 20โ25 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! You can swap the mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or any cheese that melts well.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the zucchini slices and cheese filling ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.
Optional Personal Story
I first made these Cheese-Stuffed Zucchini Bites when I was looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional cheesy snacks. The result was so much better than I expected! Theyโre perfect for parties, casual dinners, or just a healthy snack when Iโm craving something savory and satisfying.
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