Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration

I’ve been exploring ways to make vegetables the star of my meals, and this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice creates a delightful harmony of flavors. I love how this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to use up summer’s bounty, and it comes together easily for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-19T22:33:34.364Z

When I first created this recipe, I was trying to find a way to use up some zucchini and tomatoes from my garden. I wanted a dish that would be hearty without being heavy, and this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake was born. The rice absorbs all the delicious juices from the veggies, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug.

One key to the success of this bake is layering the ingredients thoughtfully. By placing the zucchini and tomatoes on top, I found they roast beautifully without becoming mushy. This technique gives the dish a lovely texture and helps preserve the vibrant colors—making it as beautiful as it is delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A wonderful way to showcase fresh summer vegetables
Comforting texture with a deliciously crusty top layer
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and grains

Ingredient Insights

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent choice for this bake. When selecting zucchini, look for firm ones with smooth skin, avoiding any with soft spots or blemishes. This recipe calls for slicing the zucchini thinly to ensure even cooking; if your slices are too thick, they may remain crunchy even after baking. You can experiment with yellow squash if zucchini is unavailable, as they provide a similar texture and flavor.

The choice of cheese can greatly influence the dish's overall taste. Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates a stretchy texture, while a sharp cheddar can add a robust flavor contrast. If you're aiming for a lower-fat version, consider using a part-skim mozzarella. For a dairy-free option, substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative, or simply omit it entirely. Just keep in mind, this may affect the final texture slightly, so you may want to sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor.

Baking Techniques

Even cooking is crucial for this dish to achieve an evenly baked top with golden, bubbly cheese. When layering the bake, try to distribute the vegetables uniformly for consistent cooking. If the edges of your zucchini start to darken too quickly during baking, consider rotating the baking dish halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that all sides are exposed to heat evenly and helps prevent burning while maintaining a nice, tender texture.

If you want to add more flavor dimension to your dish, consider incorporating additional spices or herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, while a splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the tomato's sweetness. Feel free to add breadcrumbs on top along with the cheese for additional crunch—a technique I often use for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to wash the vegetables thoroughly before use.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the perfect bake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.

Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, sautéed onions, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Bake

In a greased baking dish, spread the rice mixture evenly. Layer the sliced zucchini and diced tomatoes on top, then sprinkle with cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful baked dish!

Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. After assembling the dish, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to bake, just remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions as outlined.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you're looking to freeze portions, make sure to cut them into single servings and wrap them tightly. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands well on its own, but it can also be paired with a light salad for a complete meal. A crisp arugula salad tossed with a lemon dressing adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the bake. Alternatively, serve it alongside grilled protein like chicken or fish to create a heartier dinner option. I often add fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a garnish before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.

For a more Mediterranean twist, consider serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of pesto on top just before serving. This addition not only elevates the flavor but adds a creamy texture that complements the bake beautifully. Don't hesitate to tweak the serving options according to your preference or dietary needs—this recipe is delightfully adaptable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice usually requires longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this bake?

Yes, it freezes well! Just cover tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw before heating.