Bobby Flay-Style Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake

If you’re looking for a Bobby Flay-inspired Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake, here’s a bold, flavorful twist with his signature Southwestern flair—think roasted zucchini, spicy peppers, melted cheese, and a crispy topping. This dish is perfect as a side or a vegetarian main!

Bobby Flay-Style Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Base:

• 4 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp chili powder

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 1 small red onion, diced

• 1 poblano pepper, diced (or jalapeño for more heat)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

For the Cheesy Sauce:

• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (or Monterey Jack)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar

• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles

• ½ cup heavy cream or Mexican crema

• ½ tsp chipotle powder (optional, for smokiness)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup cotija cheese (or queso fresco)

• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prep & Roast Zucchini:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Toss zucchini with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

   • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 mins (to remove excess moisture).

2. Sauté Veggies:

   • In a skillet, sauté onion, poblano, and garlic until soft (~5 mins).

   • Add corn and black beans, cook 2 more mins.

3. Make Cheesy Sauce:

   • In a bowl, mix shredded cheeses, green chiles, cream, and chipotle powder.

4. Assemble the Bake:

   • In a greased casserole dish, layer:

     • Roasted zucchini

     • Veggie/bean mix

     • Cheesy sauce (spread evenly)

   • Top with crushed tortilla chips and cotija cheese.

5. Bake & Serve:

   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins until bubbly and golden.

   • Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Bobby Flay’s Twist:

✅ Smoky spices (chipotle, smoked paprika)
✅ Crispy topping (tortilla chips for crunch)
✅ Melty, spicy cheese (pepper jack + green chiles)
✅ Bright finish (cilantro & lime)

Great as a side for grilled meats or a vegetarian main with avocado crema! Want it spicier? Add pickled jalapeños on top! 🔥🌶️

Would you like a grilled version (since Bobby loves charred flavors)? Let me know!