Looking for a delicious way to use up fresh zucchini? This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a creamy, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds—even the veggie skeptics!
Whether served alongside grilled meats, holiday roasts, or weekday dinners, this dish delivers on both flavor and texture. It’s packed with tender zucchini, gooey cheese, and topped with a golden, crispy layer that adds the perfect crunch. Best of all? It’s simple to prepare and bakes beautifully in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups zucchini, sliced or shredded (about 2–3 medium zucchini)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for sweating the zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
- Shred or thinly slice the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and let sit for 20–30 minutes to release moisture. Squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion & Garlic
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, black pepper, thyme, sautéed onions/garlic, 1 cup cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup Parmesan. Stir in the drained zucchini and mix well.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish. Pour the zucchini mixture into the dish and smooth the top. Mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter, then sprinkle over the casserole. Top with remaining cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Variation:
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked, crumbled sausage or shredded chicken for a full meal
- Low Carb: Replace cracker topping with crushed pork rinds or omit entirely
- Extra Veggies: Add corn, shredded carrots, or chopped spinach
- Different Cheese: Try mozzarella for stretch or pepper jack for heat
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
COOKING Note:
Sweating and draining the zucchini is essential to avoid a watery casserole. Don’t skip this step!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side with grilled chicken, pork chops, or baked salmon
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted potatoes
- Make it the main dish by adding protein and serving with garlic bread
- Perfect addition to potlucks, holidays, or brunch tables
Tips:
- Use a mix of shredded and sliced zucchini for texture
- Shred your own cheese for better melting—pre-shredded may be grainy
- Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to help it set
- For crispy edges, bake in a shallow dish or cast-iron skillet
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 6 servings):
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~22g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~420mg
- Sugar: ~3g
Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.
❓FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini?
- Yes, but thaw and drain very well before using. Frozen zucchini contains more water.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
- It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I skip the mayo or sour cream?
- You can replace either with Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or all sour cream for a slight tang.
What’s the best cheese for this dish?
- Cheddar and Parmesan are classic, but feel free to use Colby Jack, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
Can I double this recipe?
- Yes—use a 9×13 baking dish and increase baking time by about 10–15 minutes.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is the ultimate way to turn summer zucchini into a cozy, cheesy comfort food dish. With its velvety filling and crunchy topping, it’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and perfect for using up garden produce.
Serve it up at your next family dinner or potluck and watch it disappear fast. Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist this creamy, golden-baked goodness.