This cheesy zucchini squash casserole is a yummy, comforting dish that combines fresh zucchini and rich cheese. It’s perfect for a family meal or potluck!
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese over tender veggies? I love sneaking some extra zucchini into my meals, and this casserole makes it super easy to do that. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini & Yellow Squash: These veggies are the stars here! They bring freshness and moisture. If you can’t find yellow squash, just use more zucchini or try summer squash of any kind. I often mix in some other veggies like bell peppers for added color.
Onion: A regular yellow or white onion works best for sweetness. If you’re looking for a milder taste, green onions or shallots are excellent substitutes. Personally, I enjoy adding a little red onion for a pop of color and a sweeter bite.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella give that creamy, cheesy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast to add flavor. A sharp cheddar amps up the flavor; I love using it in this dish.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Together, they add creaminess. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. I often use this swap, and it doesn’t change the taste!
Herbs: Thyme and Italian seasoning add a nice touch. If you prefer fresh herbs like basil or oregano, that works too! Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor, so don’t hesitate to experiment.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the casserole just right can be tricky, but here are some tips to help:
- Preheat the oven fully before baking; this ensures even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the casserole near the end of the cooking time. If it’s browning too fast, loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning.
- A knife or skewer should come out mostly clean when inserted in the center, indicating it’s set. If it’s too runny, it needs more baking time.
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to serve. Trust me, the wait is worth it for the perfect slice!
Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 45 to 55 minutes of baking time. So, plan for about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
First, get your oven warmed up by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter, so your casserole won’t stick!
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss together your sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and onion. This is where the magic starts, so get those veggies looking good!
3. Create the Creamy Mixture:
In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and mayonnaise until everything is smooth and well combined. No lumps allowed!
4. Flavor It Up:
Add the minced garlic, flour, salt, pepper, and thyme (or Italian seasoning) to the egg mixture. Stir it all together until it’s nicely blended.
5. Cheese, Please:
Now, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese. This cheesy goodness is what makes this casserole special!
6. Combine Everything:
Pour your creamy cheese mixture over the sliced vegetables. Gently fold the veggies into the mixture, being careful to coat everything evenly. We want all that flavor to get into the veggies!
7. Get Ready to Bake:
Transfer the mixture into your greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
8. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese for that golden, crispy finish.
9. Bake Until Perfect:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbling, set, and has a beautiful golden brown top!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before digging in. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, for an extra touch!
This cheesy zucchini squash casserole is creamy, comforting, and a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal veggies. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy it warm!
FAQ for Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini and Squash?
Absolutely! While zucchini and yellow squash are the stars of this dish, you can mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed for the added veggies.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Its creamy texture stays delicious, making it perfect for second helpings!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic and pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream and Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for both the sour cream and mayonnaise. This will still give you that creamy texture without sacrificing flavor. You can also use a dairy-free version if you have dietary restrictions!
