This cheesy loaded zucchini casserole is a warm, comforting dish filled with delicious flavors. It makes use of fresh zucchini, cheese, and crunchy toppings to create the perfect blend.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish packed with cheesy goodness? I like to serve it as a side or even for a light dinner. It’s so easy to make, you’ll be wanting it every week! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, summer squash works as a great substitute! You may also consider using frozen grated zucchini, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices that add great flavor and creaminess. Feel free to switch things up—Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice kick! For a lower-fat option, reduce the amount of cheese or try a light blend.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture to the casserole. If you want a healthier alternative, try using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. It won’t be as rich, but it still tastes good!
Eggs: They help bind everything together. If you’re looking for an egg replacement, you can use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Just let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Crackers or Panko: These toppings add a great crunch! If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free panko or crushed nuts for a tasty crunch instead.
How Do You Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini?
One challenge with zucchini is that it has a high water content, which can make your casserole watery. Removing excess moisture is essential. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander.
- Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. The salt pulls out the water.
- Afterward, take a clean kitchen towel and squeeze the zucchini to get out even more moisture. The drier the zucchini, the better your casserole will bake!
Keep this step in mind to ensure your casserole is perfectly creamy and holds together well!
Cheesy Loaded Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cheesy zucchini casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus an additional 30-35 minutes to bake. In just under an hour, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your casserole.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Next, place your grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out the excess moisture from the zucchini.
3. Squeeze Out the Water:
After 10 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth. Place the zucchini in it and squeeze out as much liquid as you can. The drier the zucchini, the better your casserole will be!
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with softened cream cheese, sour cream, beaten eggs, minced garlic, chopped green onions, black pepper, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Give it a good mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with some cooking spray or butter. Spoon the zucchini mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top it off with the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Add Topping (Optional):
If you want a little crunch, sprinkle crushed buttery crackers or panko evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. It’s going to smell so good!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Just before you dig in, sprinkle some fresh dill or chopped parsley on top for a nice touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve up your cheesy loaded zucchini casserole! Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish with family and friends.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, you can also use yellow squash or even mixed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach. Just make sure to chop them finely and follow the same steps for removing moisture if needed!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture and place it in the casserole dish, but don’t bake it just yet. Cover and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time as it will be chilled.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick snack!
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This cheesy loaded zucchini casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a side dish to grilled meats. You can also serve it as a main dish alongside some crusty bread for a hearty vegetarian meal!
