Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe

Looking for a delightful way to enjoy the best of both worlds with a blend of creamy cheese and fresh veggies? Look no further than these delectable Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups! Imagine tender zucchini boats filled to the brim with a cheesy mixture of cottage cheese and Parmesan, baked to bubbly perfection. These savory cups are not only a quick fix but also deliver big flavor without the fuss – making them a hit for any occasion.

I remember the first time I made these Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups for my family – they disappeared in a flash! The creamy cottage cheese center, perfectly complemented by the crispy parmesan crust, is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Whether you serve them as a light main dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these zucchini cups are a go-to recipe that promises to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the cheesy goodness of these delightful bites!

From their vibrant flavors to their perfectly portioned size, these Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups are a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to delight. As a food blogger and lover of all things delicious, I can attest that these zucchini cups are a must-try, especially during the summer months when zucchinis are at their peak. So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a flavorful snack, whip up a batch of these cheesy delights and get ready to indulge in a culinary experience that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and cheesy comfort with a vibrant veggie freshness
• Perfectly portioned little boats for easy serving and entertaining
• Versatile recipe with options for ingredient swaps and seasonal variations
• Freezer-friendly for a convenient make-ahead meal option

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe Recipe

• Perfect blend of creamy cheesy comfort and vibrant veggie freshness
• Impressive yet easy to make, suitable for quick appetizers or a main dish
• Cottage cheese melts to a creamy center contrasting with the salty parmesan crust
• Loved by both kids and adults, even those who don’t typically enjoy zucchini
• Versatile recipe with options to customize ingredients like using ricotta or mozzarella
• Can be served warm as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack, paired with various sides
• Freezer-friendly for a convenient make-ahead option to enjoy year-round
• Endless opportunities for variations with added ingredients like roasted red peppers, fresh herbs, or sliced tomatoes
• Suitable for Mediterranean food enthusiasts, reminiscent of stuffed vegetables with cheese and herbs
• A favorite during zucchini peak season, a delicious twist to plain roasted zucchini

Ingredients for Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 medium zucchini
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Pro Tips for Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe

Pro Tip 1: When making the Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups, make sure to use medium-sized, firm zucchinis to ensure they hold their shape and bake evenly when hollowed into cups. Patting the zucchini halves dry before filling them and using full-fat cottage cheese will help maintain a firmer filling that stays creamy without excess moisture.

Pro Tip 2: For a flavor variation, consider swapping out the cottage cheese for ricotta for a slightly sweeter and fluffier filling, or incorporating shredded mozzarella alongside parmesan for extra gooeyness. Adding chopped cooked spinach or fresh basil to the cheese mixture can provide a burst of extra green and flavor to the dish.

Pro Tip 3: To make prep easier for future meals, assemble and freeze the unbaked zucchini cups. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake the frozen cups, adding a few extra minutes to the oven time. This way, you can savor the hot, flavorful zucchini cups year-round without the need for extensive preparation each time.

How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the centers, creating a cup shape, ensuring a sturdy shell remains.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl, stirring until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble Zucchini Cups

Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the zucchini cups, gently pressing to fill each one.

Step 5: Bake the Cups

Place the stuffed zucchini cups on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top and the filling is set.

Storage Tips

Once you have made these delightful Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to enjoy them later. Allow the cups to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the zucchini cups in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the cups in a preheated oven for about ten minutes to revive the cheesy tops. Avoid using the microwave as it may cause the filling to become watery and the zucchini to turn mushy.

For a twist on the original recipe, consider using ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a slightly sweeter and fluffier filling. You can also incorporate shredded mozzarella in place of some of the parmesan for an extra gooey texture. To add more flavor, mix in chopped cooked spinach or fresh basil to the cheese mixture. These zucchini cups make a fantastic main dish when served warm with a green salad and crusty bread. They can also be cut into smaller bites for parties, served with a fresh tomato sauce for an Italian flair. Stored and reheated correctly, these zucchini cups will keep their delicious taste and texture for a few days after being made.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different taste, consider substituting ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese. Ricotta will provide a slightly sweeter and airier filling, adding a unique twist to the dish. Additionally, if you prefer extra gooeyness, swap out some of the Parmesan cheese for shredded mozzarella. The mozzarella will melt beautifully, giving the cups a more indulgent and stretchy texture.

To enhance the flavors and add a pop of color, mix in some chopped cooked spinach or fresh basil into the cheese mixture. These additions will not only introduce a burst of green to the dish but also infuse it with an extra layer of freshness and herbaceous notes. Moreover, consider experimenting with different types of cheese like gruyere or mozzarella for a diverse flavor profile and texture. Each cheese will bring its own distinct taste, so feel free to tailor the recipe to your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping each Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cup with a dollop of fresh pesto before serving. The aromatic basil and garlic flavors will complement the creamy cheese and savory zucchini perfectly, adding an extra burst of freshness to each bite.

Another fun idea is to serve these zucchini cups as a unique twist on eggs benedict for brunch. Simply top each cup with a poached egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for a delicious and elegant dish that will impress your guests.

FAQs for Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe

Can I freeze the Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled unbaked cups. Place them on a lined sheet in the freezer until solid then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the oven time, and enjoy hot flavorful zucchini cups year-round.

Can I substitute the cottage cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap out cottage cheese for ricotta for a slightly sweeter and fluffier filling. You can also try gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor profile and texture, though parmesan offers a sharp, salty bite.

How should I store the leftover Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups?

Store cooled cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the cups in a preheated oven for ten minutes to revive the cheesy tops. Avoid microwaving as it may make the filling watery and the zucchini mushy.

What are some serving suggestions for the Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups?

These cups pair well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or as a side for grilled meats and poultry. You can also cut them into smaller bites for parties or spoon fresh tomato sauce on top for an Italian twist.

Conclusion

I hope you give these delightful Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups a try in your kitchen soon. They are a wonderful way to savor the flavors of summer with a cheesy, veggie-packed twist. The creamy center, crispy parmesan crust, and the versatility of this dish make it a winner for any occasion, from a casual family meal to a gathering with friends.

Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonal additions to make these zucchini cups your own. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or freeze a batch for later, these little boats of goodness are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So whip up a batch of these Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups and watch them disappear before your eyes, leaving behind only smiles and satisfied bellies. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Zucchini Parmesan Cups Recipe

Irresistibly cheesy Zucchini Cottage Cheese Parmesan Cups are a delightful blend of creamy comfort and veggie freshness in each perfectly portioned boat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time25 min

Total Time40 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (8 zucchini cups)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 medium zucchini
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Zucchini: Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the centers, creating a cup shape, ensuring a sturdy shell remains.
3. Mix the Filling: Combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl, stirring until well mixed.
4. Assemble Zucchini Cups: Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the zucchini cups, gently pressing to fill each one.
5. Bake the Cups: Place the stuffed zucchini cups on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top and the filling is set.