This Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is a yummy mix of tender zucchini and squash, all drenched in ooey-gooey cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal!
I love how easily this casserole comes together—just slice, mix, and bake. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in those veggies, and trust me, kids will love it! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These are the stars of the dish! If you can’t find them, you can substitute with eggplant or even broccoli, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they cook differently.
Onion: I like using yellow onion for its sweetness, but you can swap it with red onion for a stronger flavor or green onions for a milder taste.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella give the best mix of flavor and stretch. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives, or if you want something sharper, use gouda or fontina instead.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess! You can use plain yogurt or even cream cheese if you prefer a richer texture.
Breadcrumbs: The crispy topping is optional, but it adds a nice texture. Consider using crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even panko for a crunchier finish.
How Do You Make Vegetables Tender but Not Mushy?
A common challenge is ensuring the veggies are tender but not overcooked. To achieve this, follow these tips:
- Start by slicing zucchini and yellow squash thinly to help them cook evenly and quickly.
- Sauté the onions and garlic first to soften them while bringing out their flavors. This way, they won’t have to cook too long in the oven.
- Monitor the baking time. Check the casserole a few minutes before the end time; if the top is golden and the vegetables seem tender, it’s ready!
Letting the casserole rest before serving allows extra moisture to evaporate, preventing a soggy dish.
Enjoy making this Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole for a scrumptious and cozy meal!
Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Cheesy Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional, for crispy topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of baking time. So, in just under an hour, you can have a cozy and cheesy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating, lightly grease a medium baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, just until it’s fragrant. Once done, take it off the heat!
3. Mix the Veggies:
In a big mixing bowl, combine your sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Add in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture and stir until everything is nicely combined.
4. Create the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will be the creamy goodness that brings everything together!
5. Combine Cheese and Veggies:
Toss that creamy mixture into the bowl with the zucchini and squash, making sure to keep about 1/2 cup of both cheddar and mozzarella aside for the topping. Mix everything together until all the veggies are well coated with that cheesy goodness.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the zucchini and squash mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar and mozzarella over the top. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them along with the grated Parmesan for that extra crunch!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and the top to look beautifully golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, take it out and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps set those layers. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole, perfect as a savory side or even as a main dish on its own!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheeses. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try using gouda or Swiss cheese. For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese or a blend of different cheeses for depth of flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can replace it with additional sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even cottage cheese for a lighter option. Each will still provide creaminess while adding a slightly different taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of broth or a bit more cheese before reheating for more moisture!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps until ready to bake, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven—there may be a slight increase in baking time.
