Gather these fresh ingredients to bring this vibrant bake to life:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium eggplant, diced or sliced
- 1 red or yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 white onion, chopped
- 46 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 block sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 stick of butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, bell pepper, tomatoes, and onion.
- Step 3: Drizzle the vegetable mixture with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Toss everything to ensure even coating.
- Step 4: Layer half of the vegetable mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon and half of the cheddar cheese on top.
- Step 5: Add the remaining vegetable mixture on top, followed by the rest of the bacon and cheddar cheese.
- Step 6: Finally, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top.
- Step 7: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire dish.
- Step 8: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 9: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 10: Let cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy this hearty bake!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Kcal: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
FAQ
1. Can I substitute different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the bake with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Just ensure they are suitable for roasting.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and use a combination of your favorite cheeses to enhance the flavor.
3. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
4. What can I pair this bake with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fresh salads, or even as a delicious meatless main course.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
This Easy Loaded Zucchini, Squash, Eggplant & Bell Pepper Bake is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, comforting dish while making the most of seasonal produce. Bursting with flavor and incredibly satisfying, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Make it today and treat yourself to a taste of summer any day of the year!
