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 cups cooked rice; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 3 medium tomatoes, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I love when fresh vegetables come together in a warm, comforting dish, and this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake truly hits the spot. The combination of juicy tomatoes, tender zucchini, and savory spices creates a flavorful melody that dances on the palate. With just a little bit of cheese on top, it becomes a perfect side dish or a light main course. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends with family and friends.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-19T22:17:34.981Z

When I first made this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake, I was pleasantly surprised by how vibrant and flavorful it turned out. The zucchini adds a lovely texture while the tomatoes bring a brightness that perfectly complements the rice. I learned that precooking the rice and letting the flavors meld together in the oven made all the difference.

One night, I made this dish for a friend who claims to be a ‘vegetable skeptic’. To my delight, he loved it! I mixed in a few herbs from my garden, and the freshness elevated the dish beyond my expectations. Always make sure to taste as you go!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant vegetables bursting with flavor
Simple ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying meal
Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner

      

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh vegetables in this Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake elevates the dish significantly. The zucchinis should ideally be firm and vibrant green for optimal flavor and texture. If you're in a pinch, consider substituting with yellow squash, which offers a similar texture and taste profile. The tomatoes should be juicy and ripe to add natural sweetness, so backyard garden tomatoes or heirloom varieties would enhance the flavors beautifully.

Each vegetable plays a critical role here: zucchini provides a mild flavor that pairs well with the acidity of the tomatoes, while the onion and garlic add depth and aroma. For added complexity, try incorporating different herbs, like thyme or parsley, to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.

Essential Layering Technique

Layering is crucial for ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution in this bake. When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, aim for an even spread to promote consistent baking. If you prefer a crustier top, leave a bit of space at the edges of the pan when layering, which helps the cheese crisp up nicely. I recommend using a glass or ceramic dish, as they retain heat well and provide a lovely golden crust.

As you top off the rice bake with mozzarella cheese, consider mixing in a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta cheese for an extra punch of flavor. This blend not only enhances the moisture but also adds a nice contrast in texture with a bit of bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful and nourishing bake:

Ingredients

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

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to create this delicious bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Layer and Bake

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spread it out evenly, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top, then cover with aluminum foil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake!

Let the bake sit for a few moments before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking or mixing in some cooked diced chicken for a heartier dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to ensure it heats evenly without drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave's strength, stirring halfway through to promote even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the Baked Zucchini Tomato Rice Bake. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as previously described.

Serving Suggestions

This dish makes a fantastic standalone meal, but it's also versatile enough to pair with protein. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish to create a balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with a side of roasted chickpeas or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten up the flavors.

Garnishing with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the dish. I often add a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley right before serving to boost the fresh flavors and add visual appeal. This simple touch can make a significant difference in presentation and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure it's fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility!

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.