This savory Cheesy Zucchini & Carrot Puff Pastry Bake features layers of flaky puff pastry filled with shredded zucchini, carrots, herbs, and a creamy cheese custard. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or as a light dinner.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 squares

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Ingredients

For the Filling

• 4 medium zucchini, shredded
• 2 large carrots, shredded
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Creamy Cheese Custard

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

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Pastry

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Shred the zucchini and sprinkle with salt.
• Let sit for 10 minutes.
• Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet.
• Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes.
• Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Stir in the zucchini and carrots.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes until most of the moisture has evaporated.
• Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

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Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl whisk together:

• Eggs
• Heavy cream
• Sour cream
• Mozzarella
• Cheddar
• Parmesan
• Paprika
• Nutmeg
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Dill
• Parsley
• Salt and pepper

Fold the cooled vegetable mixture into the custard.

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Step 3: Assemble

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place one sheet of puff pastry in the bottom of the dish.
• Pour the vegetable and cheese mixture over the pastry.
• Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry.
• Seal the edges gently.
• Brush the top with beaten egg.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deep golden brown.

If browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.

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Step 5: Cool & Serve

Allow the bake to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Serve warm.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 345
• Protein: 11 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Potassium: 310 mg
• Calcium: 220 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

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Tips

• Always squeeze excess water from the zucchini to prevent a soggy filling.
• Chill the puff pastry until ready to use for the flakiest texture.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Let the bake cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.
• Add cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.

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Variations

• Mediterranean: Add crumbled feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms to the vegetable mixture.
• Meat Lover’s: Stir in cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry if available.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked slices for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or air fry for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before using.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I substitute phyllo dough for puff pastry?
A: Yes. Brush each phyllo layer with melted butter and use several layers for a crisp, flaky crust.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Mozzarella, cheddar, Gruyère, Swiss, or feta all work well, depending on your preferred flavor.

Q: Can I serve this cold?
A: Yes. It tastes delicious warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it ideal for meal prep and picnics.

Q: What can I serve with this bake?
A: Pair it with a fresh green salad, tomato soup, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of creamy yogurt dip for a complete meal.