Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a simple, comforting, and delicious way to use up fresh zucchini, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe is the perfect dish. With layers of tender zucchini, a rich and creamy cheese mixture, and a crispy golden topping, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a great side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even a light main course.

This recipe is easy to customize, whether you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, want to add protein, or need a low-carb alternative. It’s also a fantastic way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon salt (to remove excess moisture)
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)

For the Topping:

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Place the sliced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for about 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel. This step helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture, then stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Layer half of the sliced zucchini in the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping. Pour half of the cheese mixture over the zucchini, spreading it evenly. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and cheese mixture.

Step 5: Make the Topping

In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. If you want extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with dried parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

1. Remove Excess Moisture

Zucchini has a high water content, so salting and draining it before baking prevents a soggy casserole.

2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. For the best creamy melt, grate the cheese yourself.

3. Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the cheese mixture before adding eggs. Adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels to your preference.

4. Try Different Cheeses

Experiment with sharp cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist on the flavors.

5. Let It Rest

Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set and enhances the texture.

Variations & Substitutions

1. Low-Carb/Keto Version

Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Use full-fat dairy and extra cheese to enhance richness.

2. Add Protein

Mix in cooked ground chicken, turkey, or crumbled bacon for a heartier dish.
Shredded rotisserie chicken makes a great addition.

3. Make It Vegetarian-Friendly

Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.
Use a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.

4. Gluten-Free Adaptation

Swap out breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.

5. Extra Crunch Topping

Mix crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions into the topping for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole pairs well with:

Grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
Fresh green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread for extra indulgence.
Soup like tomato bisque for a cozy meal.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
For a quicker option, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes! Yellow squash works well and adds a slightly different flavor.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy products with plant-based cheese, sour cream, and cream alternatives.

4. What’s the best way to slice zucchini for this recipe?

Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices that cook evenly.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious flavors. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up extra zucchini, a simple side dish, or a low-carb dinner option, this recipe is a winner. Try it out, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a warm, cheesy bite of goodness!

If you love this recipe, share it with family and friends, and let us know your favorite variations!