cheesy baked courgettes
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These cheesy baked courgettes make a great light lunch or side dish, and with their mix of herbs and melted cheese they taste a little like a delicious, lighter take on pizza.
There’s something so satisfying about a tray of courgettes bubbling and golden at the edges, the soft slices soaking up garlic, herbs, and cheese to create a cosy, comforting dish that feels far more indulgent than the effort involved.
Quick to throw together and endlessly versatile, it’s a brilliant way to make the most of courgettes when they’re at their best—perfect alongside roast chicken, grilled meats, or served simply with a crisp salad. Proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavour.
Serving Suggestions with Cheesy Baked Courgettes
- Alongside BBQ dishes — burgers, sausages or grilled veg skewers.
- Grilled or roasted chicken — simple seasoning works best so the cheesy courgettes can shine.
- Baked salmon or cod — the creamy, cheesy topping pairs beautifully with flaky fish.
- Pasta dishes — especially tomato‑based pasta, pesto pasta or creamy chicken pasta.
- Steak or grilled meats — a lighter, veggie side that still feels indulgent.
- Garlic bread or focaccia — perfect for mopping up any cheesy bits.
- Herby couscous or rice — adds freshness and balances the richness.
- Crispy potatoes — roasties, wedges or smashed potatoes all work well.
- Green salad — a simple lemon‑dressed salad cuts through the cheese nicely.
- Tomato salad — juicy tomatoes add acidity and freshness.
- Stuffed into wraps — great with grilled chicken or falafel for a quick lunch.

Cheesy baked courgette
Ingredients
- 3 large courgettes, cut in half lengthways
- drizzle of olive oil
Cheese topping
- 100 g cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¾ tsp smoked paprika
- large pinch pepper
- large pinch salt
Optional
- chilli flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 170℃
- In a small bowl add all the cheese toppings together and mix until combined.
- Place the courgettes, skin side down, on a baking tray and brush some olive oil over the top.
- Sprinkle the cheese mixture all over the top and sprinkle with chilli flakes, if using. Bake in the oven for around 20-25 mins until golden and tender, serve immediately.
