This Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Packed with tender zucchini and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for any meal.
I love making this when I have extra zucchini. Plus, who can resist melted cheese? It’s quick to whip up and always makes my family smile! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are the star here! If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well as a substitute with a similar texture.
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a nice melt. However, feel free to swap in pepper jack for some heat or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combination adds creaminess. If you prefer lighter options, try Greek yogurt in place of the sour cream, or omit the mayo entirely for a healthier twist.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together. For a vegan version, a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) can work as a replacement.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Comes Out Perfectly Set?
Getting the right texture is key when making a casserole. Here’s how to nail it:
- Pre-bake any watery ingredients, like zucchini, briefly to draw out moisture. This prevents a soggy casserole.
- Make sure to mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly, ensuring everything is well coated without smashing the zucchini.
- Check the casserole in the last 10 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil to avoid burning while the inside cooks through.
Letting it cool for a few minutes enhances slice-ability and lets flavors meld. Enjoy your creation!
Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing everything together, you’ll need to bake it for 35-40 minutes. Including all steps, you’re looking at a total time of about 1 hour for a fantastic side or main dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them until they are soft and fragrant, for about 3-4 minutes. Once they are done, set them aside to cool slightly—it makes mixing easier!
3. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step adds a lovely flavor base for your zucchini.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold in the sautéed onions and garlic, along with the sliced zucchinis and most of the cheese (save a little cheddar and Parmesan for topping!). Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the zucchini is coated in the creamy mixture.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Carefully pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps it cook uniformly.
6. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the reserved cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole for that delicious cheesy crust that everyone loves!
7. Bake!
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This waiting time helps it to set and makes serving easier.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, and then serve it warm. Savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of your zucchini casserole!
Enjoy a creamy, cheesy zucchini delight that’s easy to make and perfect as a side or main dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Summer Squash Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! Summer squash, like yellow squash, can be used as a great substitute for zucchini in this casserole. Just slice it into similar rounds, and it will cook up beautifully!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This casserole is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any flour or breading. Just be sure to check your cheese labels, as some processed cheeses may contain gluten.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it the next day when you’re ready to enjoy it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.
What Are the Best Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option!
