Savory Zucchini Oatmeal Bake (“Better Than Pizza”)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
️ Servings: 4–6
Vegetarian, meal-prep friendly
Ingredients
Base:
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1 ½ cups rolled oats (not instant)
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1 ½ cups milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
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2 large eggs
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1 medium zucchini, grated and squeezed dry
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan
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1 small onion, finely chopped (or ½ tsp onion powder)
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1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-ins / Toppings:
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½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
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Sliced olives or mushrooms
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Extra cheese on top
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Fresh basil or arugula for serving
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Drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze after baking
Instructions
✅ Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease or line an 8×8″ (or similar) baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Base
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In a large bowl, whisk together:
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Eggs, milk, salt, pepper, herbs, garlic, and onion.
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Stir in:
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Rolled oats, grated zucchini, Parmesan, and shredded cheese.
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Let sit for 5 minutes to allow oats to soak slightly.
Step 3: Bake
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Smooth the top and sprinkle extra cheese and optional toppings.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden on top and set in the center.
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A knife should come out clean when inserted.
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Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
️ Serving Ideas
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Serve warm as a meal or side with a salad.
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Great cold or reheated for lunchboxes.
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Top with a fried egg, avocado, or hot sauce.
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Cut into squares or wedges like pizza!
Storage & Reheating
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Store in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
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Reheat in the oven or air fryer to get the edges crispy again.
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Freezes well for up to 2 months – wrap tightly and freeze individually.
❓ Q&A – Zucchini Oatmeal Bake FAQ
Q1: How does it taste like pizza?
A: It has the cheese, herbs, tomato (optional), and savory richness you’d expect in pizza—with the chewiness of oats instead of dough. If you top it with more cheese and basil, it gives serious “healthy pizza slice” vibes.
Q2: Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats?
A: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture.
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Quick oats can be used in a pinch but result in a softer texture.
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Steel-cut oats won’t work here unless pre-cooked.
Q3: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes!
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Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg)
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Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast
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It won’t brown the same, but still tastes great
Q4: Can I add meat?
A: Absolutely!
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Add cooked crumbled sausage, bacon, or pepperoni slices before baking.
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You can also top it with prosciutto or ham after baking.
Q5: My zucchini was watery. What do I do?
A: Always squeeze grated zucchini in a clean towel or cheesecloth. Too much moisture makes the bake soggy and undercooked. If you forget, just bake a bit longer uncovered.
Q6: Is this good for kids?
A: Yes! It’s soft, cheesy, and easy to cut into squares. Reduce or skip the chili flakes for a milder version. You can sneak in other grated veggies too (like carrots).
Q7: Can I make this ahead?
A: Perfect for meal prep!
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Bake and refrigerate up to 5 days.
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Or mix everything (except oats) the night before, add oats in the morning, and bake fresh.
Q8: What can I serve with it?
A: Great alone, or serve with:
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A fresh tomato salad or coleslaw
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Poached or fried egg
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A bowl of soup
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Balsamic-glazed greens