Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 medium tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

When I first decided to make this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake, I was looking for something hearty yet light—a dish that would highlight the freshness of summer vegetables. I quickly fell in love with how the flavors meld together as they bake. Zucchini, tomatoes, and rice combine to create a comforting casserole that’s perfect for any meal. Plus, it’s an easy one-dish dinner that’s sure to delight family and friends alike!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:02:37.175Z

As I had some fresh zucchini and tomatoes from my garden, I wanted to create a dish that truly celebrated their flavors. The combination of these vegetables with rice creates a deliciously satisfying and filling meal. I experimented with different spices and added a touch of cheese to enhance the overall taste. The result was a beautifully baked dish where each bite is bursting with flavor.

One tip I found particularly helpful was to let the bake sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the ingredients to settle and the flavors to fully develop. It really makes a difference in the overall texture and taste. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh summer flavors combined with hearty rice
Comforting and satisfying. Perfect as a main or side dish
Easy to prepare and great for meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The inclusion of zucchini and tomatoes not only contributes to the dish’s freshness but also provides essential nutrients and moisture. Zucchini has a mild flavor that absorbs the other ingredients, while tomatoes add a tangy sweetness. When selecting your produce, choose firm, shiny zucchinis and ripe tomatoes to ensure the best flavor. For a burst of color and added nutrients, consider using heirloom tomatoes, which offer diverse flavors and textures, enhancing the overall appeal of the bake.

The choice of rice is also important in this recipe. While both white and brown rice will work, brown rice adds nuttiness and a chewy texture, making the dish even heartier. If you're short on time, you can substitute with pre-cooked rice or quick-cooking rice, adjusting the liquid measurement accordingly, as they require less cooking time. Make sure to accommodate any dietary preferences by opting for gluten-free rice varieties if needed.

Baking Techniques for Best Results

When combining the ingredients, make sure to stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed amongst the veggies. A good mix will help the rice absorb the flavors from the sautéed vegetables and broth, resulting in a more flavorful dish. For added richness, you can splash in a bit of white wine (around 1/4 cup) to the skillet while sautéing the onions and garlic; let it reduce slightly before mixing in with the other components.

The baking step is where the magic happens! Covering the dish with aluminum foil retains moisture during the first half of cooking. After 30 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to melt and develop a lightly browned, bubbly crust. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning; if it looks golden but isn’t bubbly, a gentle stir at this stage can help incorporate it for a perfect melt.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Sauté Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, uncooked rice, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with chopped tomatoes and shredded cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden.

Serve

Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs if you have any!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Adjust the seasoning to match your taste preference. You can also substitute the cheese for a dairy-free option if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake makes a fantastic standalone meal, but it can also be paired with a crisp green salad for added crunch and nutrients. Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar over the salad to balance the casserole's richness. For those looking to elevate the dish, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten up the flavors upon serving.

If you want to turn this casserole into a more substantial meal, try adding protein like cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas. Not only does this enhance the dish's nutritional profile, but it also adds a satisfying heartiness. Just ensure any added components are cooked through to maintain an even baking temperature.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. For best results, wrap portions tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warm, approximately 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning during reheating. If desired, add a bit of extra cheese on top just before heating to refresh its creamy, cheesy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms to enhance the flavor profile.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice and check any spices for gluten content.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just store them in an airtight container and they can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.