Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side that also sneaks in those nutritious veggies, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole! Brimming with tender zucchini, a luscious layer of gooey cheddar, a hint of spice, and a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping, it’s the perfect answer to summer’s zucchini bounty or a cozy dinner at any time of year. The quick prep and familiar flavors make this casserole just as suited to busy weeknights as festive gatherings—everyone will want seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole leans on simple and budget-friendly staples, each playing a role in creating the irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. These ingredients work together to keep things creamy, bright, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
- Zucchini: Mild and tender, zucchini provides a juicy bite and soaks up all the cheesy goodness.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness, helping bind the casserole together without overpowering the flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, savory, and tangy, cheddar is what makes this dish truly “cheesy.”
- Eggs: Bind everything for that classic casserole texture and give just the right amount of custardy lift.
- Pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth, enhancing all the flavors without being spicy.
- Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle wakes up the whole casserole and gives it a warm, homestyle kick.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These stay light and crunchy, creating a craveable, toasty topping.
- Butter: Infuses the breadcrumbs with richness and helps them turn deliciously golden in the oven.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Parboil the Zucchini
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil—no need to salt the water, since the cheese and mayonnaise bring plenty of flavor. Toss in the diced zucchini and let it simmer gently for just three minutes. This quick parboil keeps your zucchini tender but not mushy, and ensures it bakes up perfectly in the casserole. Don’t skip the draining and cooling; excess moisture could make your casserole watery.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooled, drained zucchini with the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything well so the zucchini gets coated with the creamy mixture and the cheese is evenly distributed. This step guarantees every bite is just as cheesy and flavorful as the last!
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 1 1/2 quart baking dish—this prevents sticking and makes serving (and clean-up) a breeze. Pour the zucchini mixture into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer. This evenness helps each bite bake up perfectly and hold together when sliced.
Step 4: Prepare the Buttery Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. This turns ordinary breadcrumbs into golden, crisp little bits of magic. Once mixed, sprinkle the buttery panko evenly over the top of your casserole for that essential crunch everyone loves in Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the dish—uncovered—into a preheated 350°F oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the zucchini is tender when pierced with a fork. The scent alone will have everyone clamoring for a taste long before it hits the table!
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives gives your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole a bright, fresh finish. If you want a bit more zip, a dash of paprika or some freshly cracked black pepper makes for a beautiful and flavorful garnish right out of the oven.
Side Dishes
This casserole is incredibly versatile! It plays well with everything from classic roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even your favorite pasta. It’s also a handy part of a brunch buffet alongside eggs or quiche to add that irresistible cheesy vegetable goodness to the spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole in individual ramekins for portioned-out servings, or use a cast iron skillet for rustic charm. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of extra cheddar, or even a splash of hot sauce for those who like it bold.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole tasting its best, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, and it reheats beautifully for a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Cool it completely, then wrap the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for optimal texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole in the oven at 325°F until heated through and bubbly—about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating, but the topping won’t stay quite as crisp as when warmed in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini instead of fresh?
You can, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid adding excess moisture. Fresh zucchini gives the casserole a firmer texture, while frozen works well in a pinch.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayo, try using sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy flavor. Just know it will slightly change the richness and tang of your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole.
Is it gluten free?
As written, this casserole contains panko breadcrumbs which usually have gluten. Swap in gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers if needed, and you’re good to go!
Can I add other veggies or proteins?
Yes! Feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms, cooked onions, or even some shredded cooked chicken or bacon for a heartier version. Just keep the ratios similar to avoid overcrowding the baking dish.
How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?
Be sure to drain the parboiled zucchini well and let it cool—pressing gently with a paper towel helps, too. Avoid overcooking the zucchini in the boiling step for the best casserole texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious, give Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole a spot at your table soon. With its irresistible cheesy layers, golden top, and welcoming flavors, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite for family meals or sharing with friends. Happy cooking!
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Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. With creamy mayo, savory cheddar cheese, and tender zucchini, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make.
Ingredients
Zucchini Casserole:
- 4 cups Zucchini, diced into 1 inch pieces
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 2 Eggs, slightly beaten
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 3/4 – 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Topping:
- 1/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp Butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Zucchini: Boil the diced zucchini for 3 minutes, then drain and cool.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine zucchini, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, eggs, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: Mix Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake uncovered at 350°F for 35 minutes until zucchini is fork-tender.
Notes
- You can customize this casserole by adding cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
- Feel free to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking for a cheesier finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Zucchini Casserole, Cheesy Zucchini, Easy Casserole Recipe
