- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Oat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, grated zucchini, beaten eggs, minced garlic, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Layer the Bake: Spread half of the oat-zucchini mixture evenly onto the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly to form a solid base for your bake.
- Add the Marinara Sauce: Next, spread the marinara sauce evenly over the oat-zucchini layer, ensuring full coverage.
- Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce layer, followed by half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining oat-zucchini mixture on top of the cheese layer. Again, press it down gently to form an even surface.
- Final Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the edges are crisp.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the Zucchini Oatmeal Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try:
This Zucchini Oatmeal Bake offers a unique twist on traditional pizza, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. By incorporating nutritious ingredients like oats and zucchini, this dish provides a hearty dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it suitable for any meal of the day.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization. Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even cooked chicken or turkey sausage for added protein. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses or sauce variations to suit your preferences.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering, planning a cozy family dinner, or simply looking to elevate your weekday meals, this Zucchini Oatmeal Bake is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the marriage of wholesome goodness and irresistible flavor.
Indulge in a slice of this delightful bake, and savor each bite as you relish in the satisfaction of nourishing your body and delighting your senses. After all, good food has the power to bring people together, spark joy, and create lasting memories. Cheers to the joy of cooking and the pleasures of wholesome eating!