Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender zucchini, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs layered with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that appeal to veggie lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into a greased casserole in 2 layers with the cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked ground sausage or turkey to the layers. You can also substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or a dairy-free cheese for a different taste. If you have fresh herbs, use them instead of dried for enhanced flavor. To reduce cooking time, pre-cook the zucchini to release excess moisture and avoid a soggy casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole as a main dish alongside a simple green salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like grilled chicken or fish. For a heartier option, consider serving it with crusty bread or over a bed of quinoa. This dish is also great for meal prep or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but for best texture, oven reheating is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Zucchini Casserole contains roughly 272 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value), and calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 casserole?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini. Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before layering in the casserole. This will help prevent a watery dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure that any canned products, like the tomato sauce, are certified gluten-free if you are sensitive.
What can I substitute for the Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, you can use a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar taste.
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).