This Baked Zucchini Casserole is a comforting, cheesy side dish that combines tender zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and a creamy mixture of eggs and sour cream for a rich, satisfying bake. This easy zucchini bake is ideal for weeknight dinners or as a hearty veggie side dish for family meals.
Layered with a flavorful mixture of garlic, onion, and optional herbs, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a delicious addition to any meal. Perfect for those looking for easy zucchini side dish recipes, it showcases the versatility of zucchini in a delightful way.
Overview of the Cheesy Baked Zucchini Casserole
The Baked Zucchini Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of cheese and fresh vegetables. This casserole is perfect for those seeking easy zucchini side dish recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious.
With layers of tender zucchini and a creamy cheese mixture, this dish stands out as a fantastic option for family meals or weeknight dinners. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a rich flavor profile that complements the zucchini beautifully, making it a must-try for any veggie lover.
Ingredients That Make It Special
To create this cheesy zucchini casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch. Fresh zucchini is the star of the show, sliced into rounds and sautéed to enhance its natural flavor.
The addition of shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese provides a creamy texture and a savory taste that elevates the dish. A mixture of eggs and sour cream binds everything together, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying. Seasonings like garlic, onion, and optional herbs add depth, making this zucchini bake a standout among veggie side dishes.
Preparation Steps for a Perfect Bake
Preparing the cheesy zucchini casserole is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. Start by slicing the zucchini and sautéing it with garlic and onion until tender. This step not only softens the zucchini but also infuses it with aromatic flavors.
Next, combine the cheeses, eggs, and sour cream in a bowl to create a creamy mixture. Layer the sautéed zucchini with this cheese mixture in a greased casserole dish, ensuring an even distribution for a delicious outcome. Baking the casserole until golden brown allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once baked to perfection, the cheesy zucchini casserole is ready to be served. Allow it to cool slightly before dishing out portions, which helps maintain its shape.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to hearty salads. It can also stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian option, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Garnishing with fresh herbs adds a pop of color and enhances the overall presentation.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This zucchini casserole not only pleases the palate but also offers nutritional benefits. Each serving is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free side dish.
With a good balance of protein from the cheese and eggs, along with the vitamins and minerals found in zucchini, this dish supports a healthy diet. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts on the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
The Baked Zucchini Casserole is a delightful dish that showcases the versatility of zucchini in a comforting and cheesy format.
Whether you’re looking for easy zucchini side dish recipes or a hearty veggie side dish for family gatherings, this casserole is sure to impress. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among both kids and adults, ensuring it will be a repeat star on your dining table.
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
This zucchini casserole features fresh zucchini sliced and sautéed, then layered with a creamy cheese mixture and baked until golden brown. The recipe takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Cook the Zucchini: Add sliced zucchini to the skillet and sauté for another 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix well.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the sautéed zucchini, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini and cheese mixture.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy zucchini casserole as a delicious veggie side dish.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g