
Vegetarian Parmesan Bake is a comforting, oven-baked casserole typically featuring layers of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach, bound with a creamy béchamel or tomato sauce and topped with a generous layer of melted Parmesan cheese. It's a popular meatless main or side dish in many Western cuisines, particularly inspired by Italian-American and Mediterranean cooking.
This dish is generally high in fat and moderate in protein, primarily from the cheese and any dairy in the sauce, while its carbohydrate content depends on the vegetables and any added pasta or breadcrumbs. A standard serving provides calcium, protein, and vitamins from the vegetables, with a calorie range often between 300-500 kcal.
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 25 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Calcium | 380 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, it represents a hearty, adaptable vegetarian take on classic baked dishes like eggplant Parmesan, showcasing how cheese can be a central flavor and textural element. Nutritionally, it's interesting for its ability to deliver a satisfying, umami-rich meal while incorporating a good serving of vegetables.