This Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! Packed with fresh zucchini and topped with gooey cheese, it’s a simple delight for any meal.
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheese melting all over veggies? I love to serve this dish with a side of crusty bread for extra dipping fun! You’re going to want seconds, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These veggies are the stars of this dish, offering a mild flavor and a tender texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, feel free to use extra zucchini or substitute with eggplant or bell peppers for variety.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds sharpness, while Parmesan contributes a salty edge. You can swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gouda. Use vegan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: This ingredient gives a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute, lending a similar tangy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Adding breadcrumbs on top gives a delicious crunch. If avoiding gluten, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a tasty alternative!
How Do I Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini?
Getting rid of extra moisture is essential to avoid a soggy casserole. Here’s a simple step to follow:
- After slicing your zucchini and yellow squash, sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out moisture.
- Once they’ve sat, gently squeeze the squash to remove excess water before adding them to the dish.
This helps keep your casserole firm and delicious!
Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 35-40 minutes to bake, totaling around 55-60 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy. Don’t forget to let it cool for a few minutes before serving—patience is key for that perfect slice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This will ensure that your casserole comes out easily when it’s done.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and warm it up. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its wonderful aroma to fill your kitchen. Then, take it off the heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Squash:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and yellow squash. To help avoid a watery casserole, sprinkle them with a bit of salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. After that, gently squeeze the squash to remove excess water, ensuring your casserole stays nice and firm.
4. Combine Everything:
Mix in the sautéed onion and garlic from earlier into your squash mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. Once mixed, pour the wet ingredients into the squash mixture and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, saving the remaining cheese for the topping.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Top it off with the remaining shredded cheese, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs if you like a crunchy topping.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it for about 35-40 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top has turned a lovely golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, allow your casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps it set up nicely.
8. Garnish and Enjoy!
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Now, dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, comforting zucchini squash casserole!
FAQ for Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan are fantastic, you can easily substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese blend if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts. This will provide a nice crunchy topping without the gluten!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Should I Serve With This Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein!
