If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with fresh flavors, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining tender zucchini rounds with a luscious blend of cheeses and aromatic herbs, it’s a warm, satisfying casserole that perfectly balances creaminess and lightness. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish never fails to impress with its golden, bubbly top and rich, savory layers beneath.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe comes to life with a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that each bring something special to the party. From fresh zucchini’s delicate crunch to the inviting aroma of sautéed garlic and onion, every component plays a crucial role in delivering taste, texture, and color.
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced: The star veggie that brings freshness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Draws out excess moisture from zucchini to prevent sogginess.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Gives the casserole body and a bit of texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and warm spice note.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings subtle earthiness to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses the dish with a classic Italian herb vibe.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharpness and umami to compliment the mozzarella.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a creamy, gooey layer of cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds lush creaminess and binds everything together.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a natural binder to set the casserole firmly.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, for garnish: Brightens and freshens the final presentation.
How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Salt the Zucchini
Start by heating up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, slice those zucchinis and spread them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle them evenly with salt and allow them to rest for 15 minutes. This simple trick pulls out excess water, which means your casserole won’t turn out watery—just perfectly tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
While the zucchini is resting, warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them gently until the onion turns translucent and softens, releasing sweet and savory aromas that will infuse the casserole with irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once the zucchini slices have been patted dry to remove any lingering moisture, it’s time to bring everything together. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onions and garlic, zucchini slices, breadcrumbs, black pepper, dried thyme, oregano, grated Parmesan, one cup of shredded mozzarella, heavy cream, and beaten eggs. Mix everything thoroughly so all those flavors marry perfectly.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then transfer your combined zucchini mixture into it. Spread the mixture out evenly to ensure consistent baking and an even golden crust on top.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded mozzarella over the casserole’s surface. This extra cheese topping creates that glorious bubbling, golden-brown crust that makes this recipe so comforting and indulgent.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese turns a rich golden color and the edges are bubbling happily. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing and serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil right before serving isn’t just pretty—it adds a fresh herbal note that brightens the richness of the cheese and cream perfectly. Other great options might include a light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a scattering of toasted pine nuts for crunch.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully on its own but can also be paired with crispy garlic bread, a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or even a bowl of your favorite soup for a full meal that feels both hearty and wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or just want to impress, try scooping the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This not only looks charming but also brings a cozy, personal touch to your table. Plus, layering the casserole with roasted tomato slices on top before baking can add a lovely pop of color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe is just as delicious the next day. Store it covered in the refrigerator and aim to enjoy within 3 to 4 days to keep those fresh, herby notes intact and the texture just right.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish for longer, it freezes well. After baking and cooling, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and bubbling again. This helps maintain its crispy topping. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the texture won’t be quite as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for their meltability and sharpness, you can experiment with cheddar, Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of feta to add different flavor profiles.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
As written, it includes breadcrumbs which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap those out for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers—this won’t compromise the taste or texture much.
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes! You can mix all the ingredients and assemble the casserole ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknight dinners.
What if my zucchinis are very watery?
Salting and resting the zucchini slices is key to reducing moisture. If they still seem watery, pat them down again before mixing. You can also squeeze them gently in a clean towel to remove extra water.
How do I make the casserole extra crispy on top?
For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese and some additional breadcrumbs over the cheese layer before baking. You can also broil the cheese for a minute or two at the end, but watch it closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe is truly a labor of love made effortlessly simple with everyday ingredients. Its creamy texture, cheesy richness, and bright herbaceous notes come together to create something incredibly satisfying and cozy. I encourage you to try it soon—whether as a weeknight dinner or a shareable side—it’s a dish that invites smiles and seconds at the table.
Print
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked dish featuring tender zucchini slices combined with sautéed onions, garlic, herbs, breadcrumbs, and a rich blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, all bound together with eggs and cream. Perfect as a hearty side or a light main, it offers a cheesy, herbaceous taste with a crispy golden top and a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Zucchini Preparation
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
Sautéed Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Casserole Mixture
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided: 1 cup for mixture, 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Zucchini: Spread the sliced zucchinis on a baking sheet and sprinkle evenly with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to avoid a watery casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the prepared zucchini, breadcrumbs, black pepper, dried thyme, oregano, grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, heavy cream, and beaten eggs. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the zucchini mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and the mixture is bubbling at the edges, indicating it is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Salting the zucchini helps remove excess moisture, preventing a soggy casserole.
- Use fresh herbs like basil for a bright garnish, or substitute with parsley if unavailable.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but the texture may be slightly different.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking cold.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
