Baked Zucchini Filling
A savory baked zucchini casserole with cheese, onions, and herbs, perfect as a side dish or appetizer for family gatherings and casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11 x 7-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, combine grated or diced zucchini, bisquick, diced onions, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Parmesan or Cheddar cheese, vegetable oil, and slightly beaten eggs.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared greased pan and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the mixture is firm and golden brown on top.
- Optional: For variation, bake in a 13 x 9-inch pan and cut into squares to serve as an appetizer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer more flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes. To prevent excess moisture, squeeze out some of the zucchini before mixing. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
This baked zucchini filling makes a delightful side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. It also pairs beautifully with Spaghetti Casserole, making for a comforting meal. Cut into squares for a delicious appetizer at parties or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Zucchini Filling contains roughly 159 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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 frozen zucchini for this recipe?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini if needed. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which can affect the final dish's consistency.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use sharp grated cheddar or even crumbled feta for a different flavor profile. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor if you're looking for a vegan option.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix or almond flour. Additionally, ensure that any cheese used is gluten-free, as some processed cheeses may contain gluten.
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).