Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

There's something irresistibly comforting about a warm, cheesy zucchini casserole fresh out of the oven. The creamy cheese melts into tender zucchini, creating a dish that’s equal parts hearty and satisfying. Whether you're looking for a way to use up a surplus of garden zucchini or just need a quick and easy side dish, this recipe has you covered.

this Recipe

I first discovered this casserole while trying to sneak more veggies into my family’s meals, and it was an instant hit. It’s now a staple on our dinner table, loved for its rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection. This cheesy zucchini casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even holiday gatherings.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps and common ingredients, you can have a mouthwatering casserole in the oven in no time.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. You can serve it as a main course or a side dish, and it pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken to a crisp garden salad.

The flavors are a crowd-pleaser too. Even picky eaters will love the combination of tender zucchini and gooey melted cheese. Plus, the crispy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch to every bite.

Finally, this recipe is a great way to make the most of seasonal produce. If your garden is overflowing with zucchini, this casserole is the perfect solution.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this recipe’s success lies in the balance of its simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

The zucchini is the star of the show. Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for the best texture and flavor. If your zucchini is larger, you may want to remove the seeds to avoid a watery casserole.

Cheddar cheese adds rich, tangy flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

For creaminess, a blend of sour cream and mayonnaise creates the perfect base. This combination ensures a luscious, velvety texture.

The breadcrumbs on top provide a crispy, golden-brown finish. You can use plain breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed crackers for a bit of variety.

Finally, a sprinkle of garlic powder and Italian seasoning adds depth and a hint of herbal warmth to the dish.

You won’t need any special equipment for this recipe, just a sharp knife for slicing zucchini and a sturdy baking dish for assembling the casserole.

How To Make This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Making this casserole is delightfully simple, and the end result is well worth the effort. Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, slice your zucchini into thin, even rounds. This ensures they cook evenly in the casserole.

In a large bowl, combine your sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth, then fold in the zucchini slices until they’re evenly coated.

Grease your baking dish lightly with oil or butter, then layer in half of the zucchini mixture. Sprinkle a generous handful of cheddar cheese over the top, then repeat with the remaining zucchini and cheese.

For the topping, mix your breadcrumbs with a little melted butter to ensure a crispy finish. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving—it will firm up as it rests.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, they’re just as delicious the next day. Store your cheesy zucchini casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply pop individual portions in the microwave, or rewarm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is wonderfully versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds as the topping.

Want to add some protein? Cooked, crumbled sausage or shredded chicken makes a fantastic addition.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a layer of sautéed onions and mushrooms.

You can even mix in other vegetables like thinly sliced yellow squash or bell peppers for a colorful, veggie-packed casserole.

This cheesy zucchini casserole is a blank canvas for creativity, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients. You never know—you might just discover your next family favorite.

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