This Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with delicious zucchini and a gooey cheese topping. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering!
Making this casserole is super easy! I love how the cheese gets all melty and inviting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those extra veggies hiding in the fridge. Yum! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini Squash: Fresh zucchini gives the casserole its base and texture. If zucchini isn’t on hand, yellow squash works well too. Both have a similar mild flavor and cook nicely.
Onion: I use yellow onions for sweetness. You can swap them with shallots or red onions if you prefer a different taste. If you’re short on fresh onions, a teaspoon of onion powder can also do the trick.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a great flavor combination. Feel free to mix in some pepper jack for a kick, or use dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitution for both, providing similar texture without the fat. You can even skip one if you want to lower the calories.
Breadcrumbs: Adding breadcrumbs gives a crunchy topping. If you want to skip them, crushed crackers or even panko breadcrumbs can work well. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Zucchini Without Making It Soggy?
The key to keeping your zucchini from becoming mushy is proper cooking. When sautéing, aim to cook it just until it’s slightly softened, not fully tender. Here’s how:
- Cook the zucchini for only 5-7 minutes in a medium skillet over medium heat. This will ensure it retains some texture.
- Consider salting the zucchini slices before cooking to draw out moisture—just remember to drain and pat them dry before mixing into the casserole.
Following these tips will help you bowl up a wonderfully cheesy casserole with just the right amount of bite in every forkful! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups zucchini squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
For Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy zucchini squash casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to bake. In total, you should plan for about 55 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’ll be heating up while you prepare the casserole, so it’s one less thing to worry about later!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This will create a lovely base flavor for your casserole!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, just until it’s slightly softened. Make sure to stir occasionally. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let those veggies cool a bit.
4. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed zucchini, onions, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, black pepper, and thyme (if using). Stir it all together until well mixed.
5. Add the Cheeses:
Now it’s time to stir in 3/4 cup of the cheddar, 3/4 cup of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese into the veggie mixture. This is where the magic happens, so make sure everything is combined nicely.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the cheesy mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. This will be the delightful base of your casserole!
7. Prepare the Optional Topping:
If you’d like to add a crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a splash of olive oil or melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole before baking.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is nicely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Add Final Cheese:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Let it bake until the cheese is melted and heavenly.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This will help it set a little bit. Then, it’s ready to be served—enjoy your cheesy, comforting zucchini squash casserole!
Bon appétit! Enjoy this comforting dish with your family and friends!
FAQs for Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Summer Squash Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! Summer squash such as yellow squash can be used interchangeably with zucchini in this recipe. They have a similar texture and flavor, making them a great alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will go in cold from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to substitute mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great option. It adds creaminess with a healthier twist! You can also use a combination of sour cream and milk to achieve a similar consistency.
