Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Looking for a delicious way to use up your zucchini? This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is the perfect answer! Packed with tender zucchini, gooey melted cheese, and a golden, crispy topping, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

this Recipe

I first created this recipe during peak zucchini season when my garden was overflowing with fresh veggies. It’s now a family favorite and a go-to whenever I need a quick, hearty, and flavorful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

This casserole is the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy. Here’s why it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again:

Perfect for Zucchini Lovers

If you have an abundance of zucchini, this dish is a delicious way to use it up. Its mild flavor pairs perfectly with the rich cheese and crunchy topping.

Easy and Convenient

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Versatile

Serve it as a side dish for roasted chicken, fish, or steak, or enjoy it as a meatless main course. You can also customize it with your favorite cheeses and seasonings.

Crowd-Pleasing

Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, comforting casserole. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Notes

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this casserole, along with tips for choosing the best ingredients:

Zucchini

Fresh, firm zucchini is the star of this dish. You’ll want to thinly slice it for even cooking. Yellow squash can also be used for a colorful twist.

Cheese

A combination of shredded cheddar and parmesan creates the perfect balance of creamy and sharp flavors. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Gruyère for extra richness.

Eggs

Eggs help bind the casserole together, creating a custard-like texture that holds the zucchini and cheese in place.

Sour Cream

Adds a creamy tang to the dish. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Breadcrumbs

For a crunchy topping, use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs work especially well for added crispiness.

Butter

A little melted butter mixed with the breadcrumbs creates a golden, flavorful topping.

Garlic and Onion

Minced garlic and finely chopped onion add savory depth to the casserole.

Seasonings

Salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning elevate the flavors without overpowering the zucchini.

How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

This casserole is quick to prepare and bakes to perfection. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Slice and Salt the Zucchini

Thinly slice the zucchini into rounds, about ¼-inch thick. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle with a teaspoon of salt, and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, shredded cheddar, parmesan, garlic, and onion. Add a pinch of pepper and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Layer half of the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the creamy mixture over the zucchini. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and creamy mixture, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Storage Options

This casserole is just as good reheated as it is fresh! Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:

Refrigerate

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Freeze

To freeze, wrap the fully baked and cooled casserole tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Add Protein

Mix in cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or diced ham for a heartier dish.

Use Different Vegetables

Substitute some of the zucchini with thinly sliced potatoes, eggplant, or mushrooms for variety.

Gluten-Free Option

Swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly dish.

Spicy Twist

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.

Herbaceous Upgrade

Sprinkle fresh basil, parsley, or thyme on top for added freshness and flavor.

This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a dish you’ll want to make all year long. Whether it’s served alongside a hearty roast or enjoyed as a light summer supper, its creamy, cheesy goodness is always a hit. Give it a try – it just might become your new favorite zucchini recipe!

Print