Name: Crispy Edges, Savory Cheese, and a Veggie Glow-Up Worth Tasting
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thin 1 large bell pepper, chopped 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.75 cup shredded sharp white cheddar; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Golden, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, this veggie-forward dish takes humble vegetables and transforms them into a flavor-packed bake that feels indulgent and comforting. Think crispy edges, bubbling cheese, and tender roasted veggies all coming together in one glorious pan. It’s the kind of dish that wins over even the staunchest vegetable skeptics.

Whether you’re seeking a meatless main or a show-stealing side, this recipe works for weeknights and dinner parties alike. It’s simple enough to whip up without a fuss, yet the results are so crave-worthy you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again.

What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?

Go for a mix of mozzarella for meltiness and sharp white cheddar for bite. Parmesan adds a savory finish on top that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Feel free to swap in Gruyère or fontina if you’re feeling fancy—it’s a forgiving recipe.

Ingredients for the Crispy Edges, Savory Cheese, and a Veggie Glow-Up Worth Tasting

2 medium zucchinis, sliced thin
1 large bell pepper, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¾ cup shredded sharp white cheddar
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Crispy Edges Savory Cheese and a Veggie Glow-Up Worth Tasting 2

How To Make the Crispy Edges, Savory Cheese, and a Veggie Glow-Up Worth Tasting

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice, chop, and halve all your vegetables. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Layer and Cheese It Up

Transfer the vegetables to a parchment-lined baking dish. Spread them out in an even layer. Top evenly with mozzarella and cheddar. Sprinkle Parmesan last for that irresistible crispy crust.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, with golden brown edges. For extra crisp, broil the last 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye!

How to Serve and Store This Veggie Glow-Up

Serve it fresh out of the oven as a hearty side dish with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian main with crusty bread. Add a green salad and you’re set for a satisfying meal.

Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or under the broiler to revive that crispy magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture which can make the dish soggy.

What other veggies can I use?

Broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, or even thin-sliced carrots work beautifully here.

Can I prep this ahead?

Definitely. Prep the veggies and cheese a day in advance, store in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Is it kid-friendly?

Totally! The cheesy top helps win over picky eaters. You can even involve them in the layering process.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha just before serving.

Want More Vegetable Side Dish Ideas?

If you loved this veggie glow-up, don’t miss out on these other craveable favorites:

Oven Roasted Root Vegetables for hearty seasonal flavors.
Cheesy Cabbage Casserole if you’re craving creamy comfort.
Healthy Sausage Veggie Skillet Meal for a full one-pan meal.
Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet for spice and protein-packed flavor.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for pasta night perfection.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can easily find it again.

I’d love to know how you made it your own—did you swap cheeses? Add protein? Drop your twist in the comments! And don’t forget to tag me if you share on Pinterest: Nina Dishes

Let’s keep this glow-up going!

Crispy Edges, Savory Cheese, and a Veggie Glow-Up Worth Tasting

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This veggie-forward bake brings out the best in your favorite vegetables with crispy cheese edges and melty goodness. It’s satisfying, savory, and simple enough for a weeknight—but impressive enough for guests.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice, chop, and halve all your vegetables. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

2. Transfer the vegetables to a parchment-lined baking dish. Spread them out in an even layer. Top evenly with mozzarella and cheddar. Sprinkle Parmesan last.

3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, with golden brown edges. For extra crisp, broil the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye!