If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together fresh veggies and ooey-gooey cheese, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect harmony of tender zucchini slices, fragrant herbs, and layers of rich cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re aiming to sneak more veggies into your meals or just craving something warm and satisfying, this casserole elevates humble ingredients into a heartwarming classic that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a blend of textures and flavors that are fresh, savory, and indulgently creamy. From the crisp zucchini to the aromatic herbs and the luscious cheeses, every element plays a vital role.
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced: The star of the dish, providing a tender base with a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Helps draw out moisture from zucchinis for the perfect casserole texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Brings a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a subtle, savory bite.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provides a light binding and a slight crunch to contrast the creamy cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the herbs and cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a hint of earthiness that pairs perfectly with zucchini.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a classic Italian touch and herbal warmth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty richness that enhances the cheesy flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds creamy, melty goodness for ultimate indulgence.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Ensures the casserole stays moist and decadent.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a gentle binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, for garnish: A fresh, aromatic finish that brightens the whole dish.
How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your casserole hits the heat, it bakes evenly and beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Lay your sliced zucchinis on a baking sheet and sprinkle salt over them. This helps pull out excess moisture, which is key for avoiding a soggy casserole. Let them sit for 15 minutes, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel to make sure they’re just right.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until your onion turns translucent and soft, about five minutes. This step is important as it brings out the sweetness and mellow aroma that elevates the whole casserole.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the prepared zucchinis, breadcrumbs, black pepper, thyme, oregano, Parmesan, 1 cup of mozzarella, heavy cream, and beaten eggs. Stir lovingly to incorporate everything evenly—this mixture is where all the magic happens.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread your zucchini mixture evenly inside. This layering ensures each bite is balanced with veggies, cheese, and seasoning.
Step 6: Add the Final Touch of Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. This will create that irresistible, golden cheesy crust that makes this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe so crave-worthy.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges start bubbling, signaling that the flavors are perfectly melded.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with fresh chopped basil. This bright, herbal garnish adds a fresh pop of color and flavor that complements the rich casserole beautifully.
How to Serve Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the star garnish here, but you can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or a light drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch. Even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For something heartier, a protein like grilled chicken or baked fish complements the creamy zucchini casserole perfectly without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You could also layer it with slices of cooked potatoes or mix in some cooked quinoa for texture variation and added nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and still taste delicious when reheated.
Freezing
This casserole freezes really well. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer individual portions into freezer-safe containers. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture or flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to help maintain the crispy topping. Microwaving works too, but you might lose some of that lovely crunch that makes this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this casserole?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are ideal for their meltiness and flavor, feel free to experiment with cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a different twist.
Do I need to peel the zucchinis before slicing?
It’s not necessary to peel zucchinis; the skin adds color, texture, and nutrients. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before slicing.
Is this casserole suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly since it does not include meat or meat-based products, just plenty of cheese and fresh vegetables.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep all the delicious flavors intact without the gluten.
How can I reduce the calories without losing flavor?
Try using part-skim mozzarella and low-fat cream or milk alternatives. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly while boosting the herbs and spices for flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food brilliance. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — simple to make but packed with flavor and texture. Whether for a weekday dinner or a special gathering, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. So go ahead, grab those zucchinis and get baking!
Print
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked dish featuring tender zucchini slices, sautéed onions and garlic, and a blend of cheeses bound together with eggs and cream. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and a crispy breadcrumb topping, it makes a perfect side or a light main course that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cheese and Dairy
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Dry Ingredients and Seasoning
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Zucchini: Spread the sliced zucchinis on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat them dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic, dried and patted zucchini slices, breadcrumbs, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, heavy cream, and beaten eggs. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the zucchini mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh chopped basil. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Patting the zucchini dry after salting is essential to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- Fresh herbs like basil add a bright finish but can be substituted with parsley or thyme if unavailable.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the texture may be less rich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
