Baked Zucchini Casserole
A comforting zucchini casserole featuring tender diced zucchini and tomato, layered with rich tomato paste and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a veggie-packed side, it's easy to prepare and full of bold flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the zucchini and tomato into 1-inch pieces.
- Arrange the diced zucchini and tomato evenly in a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the tomato paste over the vegetables and pour over half a can of water.
- Add salt and celery seed to the dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, top with thin slices of Cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano into the dish. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative works well too. To reduce moisture, you can lightly salt the zucchini beforehand and let it sit for 15 minutes before baking. This recipe is also versatile for American recipes, allowing for seasonal vegetable substitutions.
Serving Suggestions
This baked zucchini casserole makes a great side dish to accompany grilled meats or a fresh salad. Serve it alongside a refreshing drink like Delicious Holiday Punch for a complete meal. You can also pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Zucchini Casserole contains roughly 29 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole is quite flexible; you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser vegetables to ensure everything is tender.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this baked zucchini casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it in portions, and simply reheat it for a quick and nutritious dinner throughout the week.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure that any cheese or additional toppings you use are also labeled gluten-free. Enjoy it as is, or serve it with gluten-free bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).