Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing like a warm, gooey Cheesy Zucchini Casserole to bring comfort to your table. Packed with tender zucchini, creamy cheese, and a perfectly golden breadcrumb topping, this dish is a family-friendly favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. It’s a great way to use up a surplus of summer squash or add a cozy side dish to your dinner spread.

this Recipes

I first made this casserole after harvesting a bumper crop of zucchini from our garden. Since then, it’s become a staple at potlucks, holidays, and weeknight dinners alike. Let me show you why this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to dishes!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

This casserole combines everything you love about comfort food into one dish. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Easy to make: With simple prep and a bake-and-forget process, this recipe is stress-free and perfect for busy evenings.
• Crowd-pleaser: The creamy, cheesy filling and crispy topping are irresistible to kids and adults alike.
• A veggie-packed win: Even picky eaters won’t say no to zucchini when it’s smothered in cheese and baked to perfection.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish with a salad, or as a side to roast chicken or grilled steak. It fits into any meal effortlessly.

Let’s break down the ingredients that make this casserole so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that come together for an irresistible dish.

• Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star! Slice it thinly for even baking. If your zucchini is especially large, consider removing the seeds for the best texture.
• Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella delivers melty, rich goodness in every bite. Feel free to mix in Parmesan for extra depth.
• Eggs and cream: These form the creamy base that holds the casserole together. Use heavy cream for richness, or opt for half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Breadcrumbs: A crunchy topping of breadcrumbs, mixed with a little butter, creates a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
• Garlic and onion powder: These seasonings enhance the flavor of the zucchini and cheese without overpowering them.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme adds a fresh finish to the dish.

No special equipment is needed, but a 9x13-inch casserole dish and a whisk are helpful for easy assembly.

How To Make Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

This casserole is straightforward to make, with only a few key steps:

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your casserole dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the zucchini: Thinly slice the zucchini into rounds. Sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit in a colander for 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in the shredded cheese, reserving about ½ cup for the topping.
4. Assemble the casserole: Layer the zucchini slices in the prepared dish, overlapping slightly. Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
5. Add the topping: In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Spread the mixture over the cheese layer.
6. Bake to perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving.

The result is a warm, cheesy, and perfectly baked casserole that’s sure to please.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a 350°F (175°C) oven.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
• Meal prep: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, unbaked, for up to a day. Bake just before serving for the freshest results.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is incredibly versatile—here are some ways to make it your own:

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, crumbled sausage, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
• Use different veggies: Swap out some zucchini for sliced yellow squash, mushrooms, or even spinach.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with gouda, Gruyère, or feta for unique flavor combinations.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for the topping.
• Boost the herbs: Add fresh basil, oregano, or dill for a herbaceous twist.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish, a way to use up summer produce, or a cozy vegetarian main, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is the answer. With its creamy filling, gooey cheese, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a new household favorite. Serve it warm and watch it disappear from the table!

Print