This Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish packed with fresh zucchini and a gooey cheese blend. It’s perfect for a family dinner!
I love how easy it is to throw together. Just mix, bake, and enjoy a tasty side that even kids love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis and Yellow Squash: Both are key for flavor and texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or even summer squash varieties.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella work well together, but you could substitute with gouda or pepper jack for extra flavor. Remember, the quality of cheese affects taste!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a vegan sour cream alternative.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the casserole moist. Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap, but it may change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get My Casserole Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking time and temperature are essential for a well-baked casserole. Here’s how to ensure perfection:
- Preheat the oven properly; a hot oven helps set the dish.
- Check for doneness at 30 minutes. Look for bubbling around the edges and a golden top.
- If using breadcrumbs, they should be crispy. You can broil for an extra minute at the end to toast them.
- Let it rest before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.
Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, finely 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
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for crunchy topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and slightly translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step adds a delicious base flavor!
3. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Next, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to make them slightly softened. Don’t forget to season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for extra flavor!
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This mixture will make the casserole super creamy and cheesy.
5. Combine Everything:
Gently fold the sautéed veggies into the egg mixture until everything is well combined. This is where the magic happens as all the flavors meld together!
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixed ingredients into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, go ahead and sprinkle those breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture!
7. Bake:
Put your casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the mixture is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. You want it to look delicious and inviting!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little better. You can garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this cheesy delight warm as a side dish or a light main course. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Enjoy your cheesy, comforting zucchini squash casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini and Squash?
While fresh zucchini and squash are best for this recipe, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
How Do I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting them entirely. The casserole will still be delicious and cheesy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave on medium power until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté any additional veggies to reduce moisture before adding them to the casserole.
