Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Looking for a way to turn fresh zucchini into a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love? This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is just what you need. Packed with tender zucchini, melty cheese, and a crispy golden topping, it’s the ultimate side dish or light vegetarian main.

I first discovered this recipe during a bumper crop of zucchini from my garden. It quickly became a family favorite, making frequent appearances at potlucks, holidays, and weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

There’s so much to love about this cozy, satisfying dish:

First, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak, or enjoy it as a vegetarian main dish.

It’s also a great way to use up zucchini. Whether you have a garden overflowing with zucchini or need a fresh way to enjoy it, this casserole is the perfect solution.

Cheese lovers, rejoice! This recipe is loaded with melty, gooey cheese that pairs beautifully with the zucchini’s mild flavor.

Lastly, it’s simple to make. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients Notes

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of the dish. Slice it into thin rounds for even cooking.

Cheese: A combination of cheddar and Parmesan brings bold flavor and gooey texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère.

Eggs: Help bind the casserole and add richness.

Breadcrumbs: A layer of breadcrumbs on top creates a crispy, golden crust. Panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crunch.

Garlic: Adds a subtle, savory flavor that complements the zucchini and cheese.

Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and toast the breadcrumbs for a rich, buttery topping.

Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning ties everything together.

You’ll also need a baking dish (an 8x8-inch or similar size works well) and a skillet for preparing the topping.

How To Make Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

This casserole is quick and easy to assemble. Let’s break it down step by step:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds, about ¼ inch thick. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture. Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels to prevent a soggy casserole.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In the prepared baking dish, layer half the zucchini slices. Sprinkle with half the cheddar cheese, a bit of Parmesan, and a dash of seasoning. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini and cheese.

Step 4: Make the Topping
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the breadcrumbs and cook until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the zucchini and cheese layers. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

Storage Options

This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: While the texture of zucchini can change slightly after freezing, you can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. For small portions, the microwave works fine, though the topping may lose some crispness.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is versatile and easy to adapt to your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a heartier dish.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a milder flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
• Add Vegetables: Layer in sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or thinly sliced onions for extra flavor and texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a stand-alone meal, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you’ll love every bite!

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