Zucchini Casserole
In this article, we will explore a delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe.
Deliciously Easy Zucchini Casserole Recipe You’ll Love
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and delicious dish, look no further than this Zucchini Casserole. It’s a delightful blend of fresh zucchini, tender squash, and savory cheese, all topped with crispy breadcrumbs. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck with friends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those abundant zucchini from your garden or the local farmer’s market.
Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Casserole
This Zucchini Casserole is not just another veggie dish—it’s a warm, cheesy delight that brings comfort to the table. The combination of fire roasted tomatoes, sharp cheddar, and a hint of herbs creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. It’s an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without the heaviness of meat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond meal)
- 1 medium Vidalia onion, diced to ½”
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium zucchini (about 1.5 pounds, diced into 1” pieces)
- 1 medium yellow squash (about ½ pound, diced into 1” pieces)
- 1 14-oz can diced tomatoes (fire roasted preferred)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1¼ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground pepper
- 4 oz (1.5 cups) sharp cheddar, shredded
- Fresh chopped basil (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
Preparing the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly mist a 9” x 13” casserole dish with olive oil cooking spray or rub with additional softened butter.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: Melt 2 tbsp of butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs until they’re evenly moistened. Set this aside for later.
Cooking the Vegetables
In a 12” skillet, melt the remaining 4 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until it melts and foams. Add the diced onion, toss it to coat in the butter, and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until fragrant.
Add the diced zucchini and squash to the pan. Sauté, stirring every so often, until they release their liquids, the liquid cooks off, and the vegetables become tender, about 15 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their liquid, dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 more minutes.
Assembling the Casserole
Transfer the vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling.
Let it rest for five minutes, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 192 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 38 mg
- Sodium: 418 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tips for the Perfect Zucchini Casserole
- Opt for Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a depth of flavor that regular canned tomatoes can’t match.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you’re gluten-free, almond meal is a great substitute for panko breadcrumbs.
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Conclusion
This Zucchini Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that can fit any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a side, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Try out this recipe and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors and textures that make this dish so special.
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Discover this deliciously easy Zucchini Casserole recipe! Packed with fresh veggies and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it’s a comforting dish you’ll love.
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- Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- This deliciously cheesy Zucchini Casserole is the perfect comfort food. Easy to make and packed with flavor!
- Easy Zucchini Casserole with Fresh Veggies
- Try this easy Zucchini Casserole! A delightful blend of fresh veggies and savory cheese. Perfect for any occasion!
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Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oven to 350°F. Mist a 9” x 13” casserole dish with olive oil cooking spray; alternatively rub with additional softened butter.
- Melt 2 tbsp butter. Add the melted butter to the breadcrumbs and mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened. Set aside.
- Heat the remaining 4 tbsp butter in a 12” skillet over medium high heat until the butter melts then foams. Add the onion, toss to coat in the fat, and saute, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, 6-7 minutes. Add the garlic and saute, stirring continuously, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the zucchini and squash to the pan. Saute, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini and squash release their liquids, the liquid cooks off, and the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes (including the canning liquid), basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then bring the liquid to a simmer; adjust the heat to maintain a steady simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Scrape the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the vegetable mixture, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole.
- Transfer to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, the topping is golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling. Rest five minutes, then garnish with fresh basil and serve hot or warm.
