This Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy veggies! With layers of tender zucchini and gooey cheese, it’s a comforting dish everyone will love.
I love how simple this casserole is to make—just chop, layer, and bake! It’s a great way to sneak in some greens, plus, who can resist melted cheese? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are key here—they add moisture and a mild flavor. If zucchinis are not available, yellow squash can be a good substitute. Just cut them uniformly for even cooking.
Cheeses: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella offers great flavor and stretch! If you’re aiming for a lighter option, try low-fat cheese varieties. For a twist, consider adding feta or goat cheese for a tangy taste.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These help give the casserole its creamy texture. Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap for sour cream. If you prefer to skip mayo, just use Greek yogurt or an extra 1/4 cup of sour cream!
Seasonings: Italian seasoning brings a nice herb flavor, but feel free to customize with fresh herbs if you have them. Fresh basil or thyme would be lovely! You could also use taco seasoning for a fun twist!
How Do I Get My Casserole to Cook Evenly?
Getting a casserole to cook evenly can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how you can make sure your Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole turns out perfectly:
- **Slice Uniformly:** Ensure your zucchini slices are even—around 1/4 inch thick is a good guide. This helps with even cooking.
- **Layer Properly:** When layering the zucchini and cheese, try to spread them out evenly. Don’t overcrowd any one layer!
- **Cover If Needed:** If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- **Cool a Little:** Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking lets everything settle, making it easier to serve!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious, perfectly cooked casserole to share with friends and family! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 30-40 minutes of baking time. So, overall, you’re looking at about an hour to have this comforting dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix these ingredients well until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.
3. Coat the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the creamy mixture. Toss everything together until the zucchini slices are evenly coated. This step is important for flavor!
4. Layer the Casserole:
Spread half of the coated zucchini slices evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the zucchini layer.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Now, take the remaining zucchini slices and layer them on top of the cheese. Finish by topping with the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, along with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over everything.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown.
7. Let It Cool:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set and makes serving easier!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now it’s ready to be served warm, and it’s sure to be a hit!
This Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole is not only tasty but also a wonderful way to make veggies exciting. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!
FAQ for Easy Baked Zucchini and Cheese Casserole
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, you can add or substitute other vegetables like yellow squash, spinach, or even chopped broccoli. Just make sure to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or heat individual portions in the microwave.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
