Irresistibly Creamy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe for Dinner

Every home cook loves a hearty zucchini casserole that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table.

Cheese lovers will find this recipe irresistibly creamy and satisfying.

Fresh summer vegetables combine perfectly with rich dairy goodness.

Mediterranean ingredients create a delightful blend of textures and tastes.

Nutritious and simple, this dish works wonderfully for busy weeknight meals.

Simple ingredients make preparation quick and enjoyable.

Dig into this mouthwatering casserole that promises to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Everyone Loves

• Tackle Veggie Transformation: Turn humble zucchini into a mouthwatering, cheesy masterpiece that transforms ordinary vegetables into an irresistible dish everyone will crave.
• Craft One-Pan Comfort: Create a complete meal in a single baking dish, minimizing kitchen cleanup and maximizing deliciousness with layers of cheese, vegetables, and creamy goodness.
• Boost Nutritional Power: Pack a healthy punch with zucchini's low-calorie profile while indulging in rich, melted cheeses that make vegetables incredibly appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Master Simple Cooking Technique: Blend ingredients effortlessly with basic sautéing and baking skills, making this recipe perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want a reliable, tasty side dish.

Ingredients To Make Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

• Zucchini: Fresh summer squash that provides the primary vegetable base for this hearty casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture to the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mild cheese that creates a smooth, stretchy melting quality.
• Parmesan Cheese: Aged cheese that brings a nutty and salty depth to the casserole.

• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that build a flavorful foundation for the casserole.

• Eggs, Heavy Cream: Creamy mixture that binds the ingredients and creates a rich, custard-like consistency.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Crispy topping that adds a delightful crunch to the casserole surface.

• Thyme, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish that adds a fresh, herbal finish to the casserole.

• Olive Oil: Cooking fat used to sauté the onion and garlic.

Baking Instructions For Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle Aromatic Base

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Saute these flavor champions until they become soft and super fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create Veggie Cheese Mixture

• Sliced zucchini
• Sauteed onion and garlic blend
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Half of the Parmesan cheese

Sprinkle in thyme, salt, and pepper for an extra flavor kick.

Step 4: Bind With Creamy Goodness

Whisk eggs and heavy cream in a separate bowl.

Pour this silky mixture over the zucchini and cheese, gently tossing to ensure everything gets perfectly coated.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

• Remaining Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and starts bubbling with cheesy excitement.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole take a quick 10-minute breather. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Slice, serve, and watch everyone dive in!

Ways To Enhance Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

• Choose firm, fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor in your casserole.
• Gently pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture and ensure a crispy top.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter version of the dish.
• Add crispy bacon bits or diced ham for extra protein and a savory twist.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or Swiss for unique flavor profiles.

Different Spins On Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

• Low-Carb Zucchini Bake: Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version that maintains the casserole's creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Zucchini Gratin: Swap eggs and cream with silken tofu and plant-based milk, using nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free alternative packed with protein.
• Mediterranean Herb Casserole: Substitute thyme with oregano and basil, add sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired flavor profile that transforms the original recipe.
• Spicy Southwest Zucchini Casserole: Incorporate diced green chiles, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and top with crushed tortilla chips for a zesty, southwestern-style dish with extra kick.

Pairing Ideas For Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

• Garden Party Platter: Slice the casserole into elegant squares and arrange on a rustic wooden board with fresh herb sprigs, creating a beautiful appetizer spread for summer gatherings.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Serve warm alongside crispy bacon or fresh mixed greens, making it a delightful vegetable-packed main dish for weekend morning meals.
• Leftover Lunch Remix: Reheat individual portions and pair with a light green salad or stuff inside a warm pita bread for a quick and satisfying next-day lunch option.
• Potluck Crowd-Pleaser: Transport the casserole in its baking dish, keeping it warm with a towel, and watch friends and family dive into this cheesy vegetable sensation at community gatherings.

Storing Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Tips

• Refrigerate leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it's completely cooled before storing.
• Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers and freeze for maximum 2 months, preventing freezer burn by wrapping tightly with plastic wrap.
• Reheat refrigerated casserole in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning and maintain moisture.
• Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which helps preserve texture and prevents soggy edges.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of zucchini in this casserole?

Yes, you can use yellow squash or green zucchini interchangeably. Just ensure they’re fresh and sliced uniformly for even cooking.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

The recipe contains eggs and cheese, so it’s vegetarian-friendly but not vegan. Lacto-ovo vegetarians can enjoy this casserole without any modifications.

• How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add cooked diced chicken, crumbled bacon, or ham to increase the protein content. You can mix these proteins directly into the zucchini mixture before baking.

Creamy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Homemade cheesy zucchini casserole offers a delightful blend of garden-fresh vegetables and creamy, melted cheese. Comfort meets nutrition in this simple yet satisfying dish that brings Mediterranean warmth to your dining table.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese

Dairy and Binding Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Optional Toppings:

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) panko breadcrumbs
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it thoroughly, then set the oven to warm at 375F (190C).
2. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and aromatic, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine sliced zucchini with the caramelized onion and garlic mixture, mixing in both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with half of the grated Parmesan.
4. Season the vegetable and cheese blend with dried thyme, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
5. Whisk eggs and heavy cream together until smooth, then pour the creamy mixture over the zucchini and cheese combination, ensuring even distribution.
6. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it uniformly across the surface.
7. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs over the top, creating a crispy golden crust.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, watching for a rich golden-brown color and bubbling edges.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes, which helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a bright, fresh element to the rich, cheesy casserole.

Notes

• Cut zucchini uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
• Squeeze excess moisture from zucchini using a clean kitchen towel to prevent a watery dish and maintain a rich, creamy consistency.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter version that reduces calories without compromising flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or goat cheese to create unique taste profiles and keep the recipe exciting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 318 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 330 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg