This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together fresh zucchini and cheesy goodness. It’s simple to put together and sure to please everyone!
Trust me, even if you’re not a veggie fan, that melted cheese will win you over! I love serving it as a side dish or even for a cozy dinner. You won’t believe how quick it comes together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both are mild and soak up flavors really well. If you can’t find yellow squash, more zucchini works great. Eggplant or even bell peppers can be a fun twist, just keep sizes similar for even cooking!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you’re not a fan, shallots or green onions can be good alternatives. I’ve even tried skipping it and adding more garlic for a stronger flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create that perfect cheesy blend. You could swap in other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for different tastes. Aim for cheese that melts well!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: They contribute creaminess. For a healthier twist, try Greek yogurt instead. It gives a tangy flavor while cutting some calories. Just keep the quantity the same!
Breadcrumbs: They add a crunchy top. If you prefer less carbs, try crushed nuts or skip them entirely. I sometimes add a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder on top for extra flavor.
How Do I Get My Casserole to Be Extra Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a creamy and tasty casserole lies in proper mixing and layering. Here’s how to make sure all those flavors meld beautifully:
- Really mix the mayonnaise and sour cream with the veggies until every slice is coated. This ensures creaminess in every bite!
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning! The salt, pepper, and Italian herbs elevate the dish’s taste, so feel free to add a touch more if you like it spicier.
- Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes after baking. This helps everything settle, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Taking these steps will help you create a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish everyone will love!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 3 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake. With a total time of about 50 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy and comforting dish ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, you can prepare your casserole dish by lightly greasing a medium-sized baking dish. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Sauté The Onions and Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter. Once heated, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. This will provide a delicious base flavor!
3. Mix The Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis and yellow squash. Then, add the sautéed onion and garlic to the bowl. Toss everything together gently until the veggies are evenly mixed.
4. Combine The Sauces and Seasonings
Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the veggie mixture. Mix everything well, ensuring each piece of squash is coated with the creamy goodness.
5. Add The Cheeses
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This cheesy mixture is what makes the casserole irresistible!
6. Transfer and Spread In The Casserole Dish
Transfer the entire mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. For a finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the optional breadcrumbs evenly on top. This will create a lovely golden crust when baked.
7. Bake The Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and bubbly, and the vegetables are tender. The aroma will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone in!
8. Cool And Serve
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling time helps it set a little, making it easier to serve.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy zucchini squash casserole as a delightful side or light main dish!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in or substitute other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking. You can also add some spinach or kale for extra nutrients!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven; you may need to add a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. You can also sprinkle some crushed gluten-free crackers or nuts on top for a similar texture!