Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

Vegetables:

The key to making an exceptional Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is selecting the freshest and highest quality ingredients.

For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Zucchinis: 2-3 medium-sized, firm and fresh zucchinis are ideal. You can choose any variety of zucchini, but for a classic taste, opt for the green or yellow zucchini.
• Cheese: A blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese adds a rich, creamy flavor to your casserole. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best results.
• Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, basil, or thyme add a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the cheese perfectly.
• Onion: A small, sweet onion like Vidalia or shallot adds a depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness to your casserole.
• Fresh garlic: 2-3 cloves of freshly minced garlic are essential for adding a punch of flavor to your dish.
• Eggs: Fresh, large eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the casserole.
• Olive oil: A neutral-tasting olive oil is perfect for sautéing the onion and garlic without overpowering the other flavors in your dish.
• Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce and prevent it from becoming too runny.

The quality and freshness of your ingredients will directly impact the taste and texture of your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Be sure to choose high-quality cheese, fresh produce, and wholesome pantry staples for the best results.

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced

The star ingredient of our Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe is, of course, the **zucchini** itself!

A medium-sized _zucchini_ yields a generous amount of sliced zucchini that will make up the base of our casserole.

To select the perfect _zucchini_, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size with a vibrant green color and no signs of soft spots or bruises.

For this recipe, you’ll need to slice your _zucchini_ into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. You can use either a mandoline or a sharp knife to achieve even slices.

To remove excess moisture from the sliced zucchini, place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out any excess water before rinsing and patting dry with paper towels.

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a delicious and savory dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish, perfect for summer when zucchinis are in season. The key to this recipe’s flavor and texture lies in the quality of its ingredients.

For this recipe, we need 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved. Cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness and acidity to the casserole, balancing out the richness of the cheese. They also provide a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

The reason for halving the cherry tomatoes is to allow them to cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients. If left whole, they might not cook through properly, resulting in a slightly undercooked or crunchy texture. By cutting them in half, we can ensure that they’re cooked just right.

It’s worth noting that cherry tomatoes come in various sizes and colors, from tiny red ones to larger yellow or orange varieties. For this recipe, you can use any color you like, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly depending on the type of tomato used.

When selecting cherry tomatoes for your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, look for firm, plump fruits with a glossy appearance. Avoid those with soft spots or wrinkles, as they may not hold up well during cooking.

Sauce:

The success of a Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe lies not only in its presentation but also in the selection and combination of ingredients used to create the sauce.

A typical cheesy zucchini casserole sauce is made up of a mixture of grated cheese, milk or cream, and spices. The primary cheeses used are cheddar and mozzarella, although other variations such as parmesan or Monterey Jack may also be incorporated for added flavor.

Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy taste and a smooth texture when melted. It is often used in combination with the milder-tasting mozzarella cheese to create a balanced flavor profile. Mozzarella adds creaminess and helps bind the sauce together.

The liquid component of the sauce is typically milk or heavy cream. The choice between these two options depends on personal preference regarding richness and calorie content. Milk offers a lighter, fresher taste while cream adds depth and an extra layer of calories to the dish.

For added flavor, herbs such as dried oregano, basil, and thyme may be included in the sauce. Oregano contributes a savory, slightly bitter note; basil adds a bright, herbaceous quality; and thyme brings a pine-like, earthy undertone.

Salt and pepper are also fundamental components of any cheesy zucchini casserole sauce. They enhance flavors while preventing other spices from becoming too overpowering.

The specific proportions of cheese, liquid, and herbs can be adjusted to suit individual taste preferences. However, a basic guideline for combining these ingredients involves using roughly two-thirds cheddar to one-third mozzarella by weight, along with half-and-half or heavy cream as the milk component.

• 1/4 cup olive oil

Olive oil is one of the essential ingredients in a variety of culinary dishes, including the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe.

The amount of olive oil used in this recipe is relatively small, specifically 1/4 cup, which may not be a significant portion for some cooks but is a crucial component nonetheless.

Olive oil’s inclusion serves several purposes: it adds flavor, helps with the sautéing process, and brings moisture to the dish. The Mediterranean origin of olive oil lends itself particularly well to the flavors commonly found in Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, such as garlic and herbs.

The choice of olive oil can also affect the taste of the casserole. A mild or light-tasting olive oil may be preferred if the cook wants the other flavors in the dish to shine through, while a more robust or extra-virgin olive oil might add an intensity that complements richer ingredients like cheese.

Furthermore, olive oil contributes to the overall texture of the casserole. The moisture it provides helps prevent the vegetables from becoming dry and ensures they retain some of their natural juiciness, making each bite more appealing.

In the context of this specific recipe, the 1/4 cup of olive oil is combined with garlic and herbs to create a flavorful base for sautéing the zucchini and other ingredients. This mixture adds depth and richness that would be absent if only water or another cooking liquid were used.

Finally, olive oil’s use in this recipe highlights its versatility and value as an ingredient. Even when using relatively small amounts, such as 1/4 cup, it plays a significant role in enhancing the flavors and textures present in the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

The ingredients required for this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe include:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds

• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 2 large eggs, beaten

The minced garlic is a crucial ingredient in this recipe as it adds flavor and aroma to the cheesy zucchini casserole. To prepare the garlic, peel 2 cloves of garlic and chop them into small pieces until you have about 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. You can also use a garlic press or a microplane to mince the garlic if you prefer.

• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

When it comes to the cheesy goodness that holds this casserole together, cheddar cheese takes center stage with its sharp, tangy flavor and smooth texture. A key component of the dish, a whole cup of grated cheddar cheese is required.

The importance of using high-quality cheddar cannot be overstated. A good cheddar should have a rich, slightly sweet flavor that adds depth to the casserole without overpowering it. It’s also essential to ensure that the cheese is freshly grated, as pre-shredded or processed cheese may contain additives and preservatives that can affect its taste.

In terms of the type of cheddar to use, a medium or sharp cheddar works best for this recipe. A mild cheddar may be too mild and won’t provide enough flavor, while an extra-sharp cheddar might overpower the other ingredients. The grated cheese will also help to add moisture to the casserole as it bakes.

Another consideration is how finely the cheddar should be grated. While a coarse grate can add nice texture, a finer grate will melt more evenly and blend in with the other ingredients. This helps to ensure that the cheese is distributed consistently throughout the casserole.

It’s worth noting that you can always mix and match different types of cheese for added flavor. For example, combining cheddar with mozzarella or Parmesan can create a delicious, savory taste profile that elevates this dish above the ordinary.

Cheese Blend:

The key to a delicious Cheese Blend lies in its carefully selected ingredients, which bring together an array of flavors and textures that elevate the entire dish. In our Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe, we’re using a custom blend of cheeses that provide creaminess, tanginess, and a hint of nuttiness.

For this purpose, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• Velveeta Cheese: A processed cheese with a smooth, creamy texture that melts well and adds richness to the casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese, shredded: A popular choice for its sharpness and versatility in sauces and casseroles.
• Mozzarella Cheese Shredded: With a mild flavor, this cheese helps balance out the bold flavors of other ingredients.
• Monterey Jack Cheese Shredded: Known for its semi-soft texture and slightly sweet taste, it adds depth to the dish.
• Feta Cheese Crumbles, optional: A tangy addition that provides a burst of flavor in each bite. Feel free to omit if you’re not a fan or substitute with another crumbled cheese.

Remember, you can always adjust the proportions of your Cheese Blend to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations of cheeses and amounts to create the perfect harmony for your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole.

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

The ingredients for this delicious Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe include a variety of items that will complement the flavors and textures of the dish.

The first ingredient on our list is shredded mozzarella cheese, which plays a starring role in the casserole’s cheesy goodness. Specifically, we’ll be using 1 cup of shredded mozzarella for this recipe.

This amount of mozzarella provides a generous helping of creamy, melted cheese that will bind together the various components of the dish, such as the zucchini, tomato sauce, and breadcrumbs.

As you prepare to make your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, be sure to have this 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on hand. It’s an essential ingredient that will add richness and depth to each bite.

The quality of the mozzarella cheese is also important, as it can affect the overall flavor and texture of the casserole. Look for a high-quality mozzarella that melts well and has a creamy consistency.

Other:

The cheesy zucchini casserole recipe requires a variety of ingredients, including some unconventional items that add to its unique flavor and texture.

Zucchinis are a crucial component of this dish, providing a crunchy exterior and a soft interior that pairs well with the melted cheese. Choose **medium-sized zucchinis** for the best results.

The amount of cheese used in this recipe may seem excessive, but it’s essential to create a rich and creamy sauce that binds all the ingredients together. A blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan is recommended, as each type of cheese adds its own unique flavor profile.

Cream of mushroom soup might seem like an unusual ingredient in a casserole recipe, but it helps to add moisture and depth to the dish. Use a low-sodium version of this product to avoid adding excess salt.

Fresh **basil** adds a bright and refreshing flavor to the casserole, while also complementing the earthy taste of the zucchinis. Don’t be shy when sprinkling basil over the top of the dish before baking.

Breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch on the outside of each zucchini slice, while helping to hold everything together during the baking process. Choose plain breadcrumbs without any added seasonings or flavors.

A **large onion** is another key ingredient in this recipe, adding a sweet and savory flavor that balances out the bitterness of the zucchinis. Use a sweet onion variety like Vidalia for the best results.

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Salt and pepper are fundamental seasoning ingredients that play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of dishes, including the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole.

Salt serves as a versatile seasoning that can be used to bring out the natural flavors of various ingredients in the casserole.

It helps to balance the sweetness of the zucchini and other vegetables by suppressing their natural sweetness, thereby allowing the other flavors to shine through.

Pepper adds a pungent flavor and aroma to the dish that complements the saltiness and richness of the cheese.

The combination of salt and pepper in the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole recipe serves to enhance the overall taste experience by adding depth, complexity, and a touch of heat to the dish.

When added ‘to taste’, salt and pepper allow each individual to customize the seasoning levels according to their personal preferences and tolerance for flavor intensity.

The instructions to use these ingredients ‘to taste’ encourage experimentation and flexibility in cooking, making it easier to adjust the flavors of the casserole to suit different palates and occasions.

Ultimately, the judicious use of salt and pepper is essential to creating a well-balanced and delicious Cheesy Zucchini Casserole that pleases both the cook and those who enjoy it.

Instructions

Preliminary Steps:

To prepare a delicious Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, it’s essential to follow some preliminary steps that will ensure the dish turns out perfectly.

Here are the key instructions to get you started:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is a crucial step as it sets the temperature for baking, which helps cook the casserole evenly.

2. Prepare the zucchinis by washing them under cold running water to remove any dirt or bacteria. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish’s texture and consistency.

3. Microwave the sliced zucchinis for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become slightly softened. This step helps break down some of the zucchini’s cell walls, making it easier to absorb flavors and cook evenly in the casserole.

4. While the zucchinis are cooking in the microwave, prepare the cheese mixture by shredding the cheddar and mozzarella. You can also grate them using a box grater if you prefer a more uniform texture.

5. Make sure to mix the shredded cheese with other ingredients such as cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and dried herbs according to your preference. This step is essential in creating a harmonious balance of flavors in the casserole.

By following these preliminary steps carefully, you’ll be able to create a delicious Cheesy Zucchini Casserole that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

To begin making this scrumptious Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, you will first need to **preheat** your oven to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and at the right pace.

The next step involves preparing the ingredients. You’ll need to finely chop one medium-sized onion, which should be done using a sharp knife to avoid any accidents in the kitchen. Once chopped, set the onion aside for later use.

Next, slice two medium-sized zucchinis into thin rounds, removing any seeds or excess moisture along the way. The goal is to achieve uniform slices that will cook consistently in the oven.

Melt a generous amount of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it reaches a translucent state, then add the sliced zucchinis. Cook for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

In a separate mixing bowl, combine one cup of grated cheddar cheese, half a cup of shredded mozzarella, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until well combined, then set it aside for later use.

Once the zucchini mixture is cooked through, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. In a separate casserole dish, arrange half of the cooked zucchinis in a single layer at the bottom of the dish.

Next, sprinkle half of the cheese mixture evenly over the arranged zucchini slices. Repeat this process by adding the remaining zucchinis and topping it off with the remainder of the cheese mixture.

To finish the casserole, sprinkle some extra grated cheddar on top for an extra burst of flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Remove the foil after 30 minutes and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. This ensures a perfect casserole with a crunchy top layer.

Finally, remove the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade casserole!

• Toss zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper; set aside

To create a delicious and flavorful Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Toss zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl to coat evenly.

This step serves several purposes. First, it helps to tenderize the zucchini by coating it with a layer of moisture. Second, it adds flavor to the dish by introducing a savory blend of seasonings. Finally, it makes it easier to cook the zucchini later in the recipe.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini

• Slice the prepared zucchini into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
• In a large skillet, heat about 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it is tender and lightly browned.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Topping

1. In a separate bowl, mix together grated cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan), breadcrumbs, and chopped fresh parsley.
2. Add any additional seasonings you like, such as garlic powder or dried oregano, to the cheese mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked zucchini slices in an even layer.
• Spread half of the cheese mixture over the top of the zucchini.
• Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini and cheese layers.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top layer of cheese is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will give the flavors time to meld together and the cheese to set properly. Slice into individual portions and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. The combination of tender zucchini, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

• Cook cherry tomatoes in a skillet over medium heat until tender

To prepare a delicious Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, it’s essential to start with perfectly cooked cherry tomatoes. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to achieve tender and flavorful cherry tomatoes:

**Cooking Cherry Tomatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide**

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. This is crucial as it helps prevent the cherry tomatoes from burning or cooking too quickly.

2. Add a small amount of oil to the skillet and swirl it around. You can use any type of oil, such as olive or vegetable oil.

3. Once the oil is hot, add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet in a single layer. This ensures they have enough room to cook evenly.

4. Let the cherry tomatoes cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to release their juices and become tender. You may need to stir them occasionally to prevent burning.

5. As the cherry tomatoes continue to cook, you’ll notice they’re softening and becoming more translucent. This is a sign that they’re almost done.

6. After about 10-12 minutes, the cherry tomatoes should be fully cooked and tender. Remove them from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Now that you have perfectly cooked cherry tomatoes, it’s time to incorporate them into your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe. Simply add them to the casserole along with other ingredients like zucchini, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and enjoy!

Cheesy Casserole Assembly

Assembly:

To assemble the cheesy zucchini casserole, you will need to layer the ingredients in a baking dish. This process requires some care to ensure that each component is evenly distributed and visually appealing.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.

Begin by spreading a layer of sliced zucchinis at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. You can use about half of your zucchini slices for this initial layer.

Next, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the zucchinis to create a savory base. Use about one-third of your total cheese amount for this layer.

Incorporate a layer of cream of mushroom soup by spreading it evenly over the cheese. This will help bind the flavors together and add moisture to the casserole.

Add another layer of zucchinis on top of the soup mixture, followed by another sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Continue this layering process until you’ve used up all your ingredients. Start with a layer of zucchinis, then cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, and repeat until you reach the top of the baking dish.

Finish off the casserole by sprinkling an even layer of grated Parmesan cheese on top. This will provide an extra burst of flavor and add texture to the final product.

Finally, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

After removing the foil, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the top layer of cheese to brown slightly.

Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help prevent burns and make it easier to transfer to individual plates or bowls.

• In a separate bowl, combine cheddar cheese and garlic; mix well

To assemble the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, follow these steps:

Cheesy Topping Assembly

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 2 cloves of minced garlic; mix well until the cheese is evenly coated with the garlic.

Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. You’ll need the prepared zucchini mixture, the cheesy topping, and some shredded mozzarella cheese.

Cheesy Casserole Assembly

1. Spread half of the prepared zucchini mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Next, sprinkle half of the Cheesy Topping mixture over the zucchini layer.
3. Add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the cheesy topping.
4. Repeat the layers: spread the remaining zucchini mixture, sprinkle with the remaining Cheesy Topping mixture, and finally add the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.

• Grease a 9x13inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray

To begin assembling the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, it’s essential to prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish for this purpose. The first step involves greasing the dish with nonstick cooking spray.

This ensures that the casserole will release easily from the dish after baking and also helps prevent it from sticking to the surface, making cleanup more efficient. Nonstick cooking spray is ideal for this task as it creates a smooth and even barrier between the casserole and the dish.

When using nonstick cooking spray, you can either use a manual or an aerosol spray canister. Both options work well, but make sure to follow the instructions provided with the product to get the best results.

The key is to evenly coat the bottom and sides of the 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent any sticking or residue from forming during cooking, which could lead to difficulties in serving or storing the casserole later on.

Additionally, it’s also a good idea to lightly spray the inside of the dish again after filling and before adding additional layers, especially if you’re using ingredients that might stick more than others. This extra layer of protection will ensure your casserole turns out perfectly cooked and intact.

• Begin layering casserole with zucchini mixture, cherry tomatoes, cheese blend, and cheddargarlic sauce

To begin assembling the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the casserole cooks evenly and at the right temperature.

Next, prepare the zucchini mixture by cooking the sliced zucchinis in a pan until they are tender. Allow them to cool slightly before using them in the casserole assembly.

Begin building the casserole by creating a thin layer of the zucchini mixture at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help create a solid base for the other layers.

Following the zucchini layer, add a layer of cherry tomatoes on top. You can use fresh or frozen cherry tomatoes, and you may need to thaw them first if using frozen.

Next, sprinkle half of the cheese blend over the cherry tomato layer. This will help bind the ingredients together and add flavor.

Now, pour half of the Cheddar Garlic Sauce over the cheese blend. Make sure to cover the entire surface, but don’t worry too much about making it perfect – the casserole will still turn out delicious!

Repeat the layers in the following order: zucchini mixture, cherry tomatoes, cheese blend, and Cheddar Garlic Sauce.

Once you’ve completed the last layer of cheese on top, use a spatula to spread it evenly. This will help create a golden-brown crust when baked.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add some color and freshness.

The Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is now ready to be served hot, straight out of the oven. Enjoy!