Make the most of summer’s bounty with our Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe. Bursting with flavor and crowned with a golden breadcrumb topping, this creamy delight is a delightful side dish that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this zucchini casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh zucchini, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup of creamy mayonnaise
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs, slightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- ¾ to 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- ¼ cup of crunchy Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1 1/2 quart baking dish and set it aside for later use.
- Parboil the Zucchini: In a pot of boiling water, cook the diced zucchini for approximately 3 minutes. Drain the zucchini and allow it to cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the parboiled zucchini with creamy mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Layer and Spread: Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs and melted butter until well combined.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the zucchini mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the zucchini is fork-tender and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as a delightful side dish alongside your favorite main courses.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole as a delectable side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast of flavors and textures.
- Enjoy leftovers for breakfast by reheating a portion and serving it with a fried or poached egg on top for a hearty and nutritious start to the day.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through for a quick and convenient meal option.
- You can also freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations:
1. Mediterranean Twist: Add diced tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the zucchini mixture for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
2. Herbaceous Delight: Mix in chopped fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or dill for a burst of freshness and aroma.
3. Veggie Medley: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value and add depth to the dish.
4. Italian Influence: Replace cheddar cheese with shredded mozzarella and add Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy Italian twist.
5. Tex-Mex Fusion: Spice things up by adding diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder to the zucchini mixture, and top with crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex flair.
6. Bacon Bliss: Stir in crispy cooked bacon pieces for added smokiness and crunch, perfect for bacon lovers.
7. Ranch Flavor: Substitute mayonnaise with ranch dressing and add a sprinkle of ranch seasoning mix for a tangy and flavorful variation.
8. Cheesy Jalapeño: Mix in diced jalapeños and Monterey Jack cheese for a spicy kick and gooey, cheesy goodness.
9. Creamy Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms until golden brown and mix them into the zucchini mixture for a rich and earthy flavor.
10. Protein Powerhouse: Add cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or ham to the casserole for an extra dose of protein and heartiness.
11. Greek-Inspired: Add chopped fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Greek-inspired twist on this classic dish.
12. Buffalo Zucchini: Toss the diced zucchini in buffalo sauce before mixing it with the other ingredients for a spicy and tangy flavor explosion.
13. Cauliflower Swap: Replace half of the diced zucchini with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb version of the casserole that’s still packed with flavor.
14. Creamy Corn: Mix in a cup of sweet corn kernels for a pop of sweetness and added texture that complements the creamy, cheesy goodness.
15. Veggie-loaded: Amp up the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, and celery for a colorful and nutrient-rich casserole.
16. Italian Sausage: Brown Italian sausage and mix it into the zucchini mixture for a hearty and satisfying main course option.
17. Herb Crust: Combine chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage with the breadcrumbs for a fragrant and flavorful crust.