This easy baked zucchini and cheese casserole is a comforting dish packed with fresh zucchini and gooey cheese. It’s perfect as a side or a light main meal!
I love how quick it is to make—just layer the zucchini and cheese, pop it in the oven, and relax! Your taste buds will thank you for this cheesy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of the dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. Just ensure they’re about the same size for even baking.
Cheddar Cheese: This adds a sharp flavor. I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try dairy-free cheese shreds!
Sour Cream: This helps keep the casserole creamy. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative, or you could use plain cottage cheese for a different texture.
Eggs: They bind everything together. If you’re avoiding eggs, try a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
Herbs: Dried oregano or Italian seasoning provides great flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used for an extra aromatic touch if you have them on hand.
How Do I Keep the Zucchini from Being Soggy?
One common issue with zucchini dishes is excess moisture. Here’s how to avoid that:
- First, sprinkle the sliced zucchini with salt and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This draws out some moisture.
- Afterward, gently pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.
- Another tip is to bake the casserole uncovered. This allows moisture to escape and helps the top get nice and golden.
- Lastly, avoid over baking. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness at around 30 minutes.
With these tips, your casserole will come out delicious and not watery!
Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing onion and garlic)
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 30-40 minutes to bake, making it a total of approximately 50 minutes until you can enjoy a warm, cheesy dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter. Once heated, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Combine the Base Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). After that, stir in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Make sure it’s combined well!
4. Mix in the Cheeses:
Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until it’s well blended.
5. Season the Zucchini:
Take the thinly sliced zucchini and season them with salt, pepper, and the dried oregano or Italian seasoning. This adds great flavor!
6. Layer the Casserole:
Start layering your casserole! Place half of the zucchini slices evenly on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the zucchini. Then, layer the remaining zucchini on top, followed by the remaining cheese mixture. This will create a beautiful layered dish!
7. Top with Parmesan:
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for that lovely golden finish.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. It’s done when the casserole is bubbly and golden on top. To check the zucchini’s tenderness, simply insert a fork into the dish.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. If you like, you can garnish it with some fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy this warm casserole as a wonderful side dish or a light main course! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Dig into this cheesy, delightful zucchini casserole and savor every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, feta, or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just stick to about the same amount to maintain the right texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it is! Just ensure that all your cheese options are made without animal rennet. It’s a delicious way to incorporate more veggies into your meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure all ingredients are cooked through and tender!
