Description
A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender zucchini, sautéed onions, and a creamy cheese mixture topped with a golden, bubbly breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this cheesy zucchini casserole combines the freshness of summer squash with rich dairy ingredients, baked to perfection for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
Dairy & Eggs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
Seasonings & Miscellaneous
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sauté onions: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook zucchini: Add the thinly sliced zucchini to the skillet with the onions and cook for 3–4 minutes to release excess moisture and soften them slightly, which helps prevent a watery casserole.
- Mix cheese base: In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Add cheeses: Stir the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the sour cream mixture to create a creamy, cheesy base.
- Combine zucchini mixture: Gently fold the cooked zucchini and onion mixture into the cheese mixture, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated without breaking down the zucchini too much.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top along with the remaining Parmesan cheese to form a flavorful, golden crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to slice.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or diced ham to the mixture before baking.
- Drain excess liquid from the zucchini after slicing to prevent a watery casserole.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American