Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 large tomatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I love preparing this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake whenever I want a simple yet satisfying dish. It’s a delightful combination of fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and fluffy rice. As the veggies meld together in the oven, they create a delicious aroma that fills my kitchen. This dish is not just a meal; it's a celebration of summer flavors that the whole family can enjoy. Serving it with a side salad completes the experience effortlessly!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:41:35.029Z

When I first experimented with a zucchini bake, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, but the results were fantastic! I discovered that layering the vegetables with the rice not only enhances the flavor but also keeps everything moist during baking. I often use fresh herbs from my garden, and this adds a beautiful fragrance and extra taste to the dish.

One of the best tips I have is to let the bake sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice. I’ve served this dish at family gatherings and it always becomes a favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh taste of summer vegetables in every bite
Easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner
Versatile; can be served as a side or main dish

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, seasonal vegetables is key to achieving the vibrant flavors in this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake. Fresh zucchini adds a slightly sweet crunch, while ripe tomatoes contribute juiciness and acidity, balancing the dish. When selecting your zucchini and tomatoes, look for firm produce with shiny skin. The flavor difference between fresh and slightly overripe ones can be significant, impacting the overall taste of the bake.

If you can access local farmers' markets, I highly recommend sourcing your ingredients there for the best taste. Fresh vegetables not only elevate the dish but also provide more nutrients, making your meal healthier. You can experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as heirloom or Roma, to find the flavor profile that your family enjoys the most.

Perfect Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic before mixing them with the other ingredients is a crucial step. It enhances the flavors, bringing out their sweetness. Make sure to cook them until they turn translucent and fragrant—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. Properly sautéed vegetables will deepen the overall taste of this bake, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

When it comes to assembling the bake, don’t skip the step of drizzling olive oil over the top. This not only helps the cheese brown beautifully but also keeps the dish moist during baking. Keep an eye on the bake as it cooks: once you see cheesy bubbles forming and golden edges appearing, it's time to remove the foil and finish baking.

Ingredients

For the Bake

2 cups cooked rice
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 large tomatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Olive oil for drizzling

Enjoy your cooking!

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until they are translucent.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, zucchinis, tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let It Rest

Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bake with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a heartier meal!

Storing and Reheating

This Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. If you want to freeze it, ensure it has cooled completely, then store in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer, but for best flavor and texture, try to consume it within a month.

When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat the bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. If you're in a hurry, a quick 5-7 minutes in the microwave will do, but I find that reheating in the oven helps maintain the texture of the cheese and the dish overall.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish to your family's preferences! For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chickpeas, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even crumbled feta cheese. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also create a more filling dish that could serve as a main course.

If you want to spice things up, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of balsamic vinegar before baking. Other vegetable options like bell peppers or spinach can also be incorporated for more variety. Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly if you're adding ingredients that need more or less time to cook.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just be mindful that brown rice may require a longer cooking time.

→ What can I serve with the Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to eat.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.