Elain'S Zucchini Casserole
A hearty zucchini casserole featuring tender slices, cheesy goodness, and a crispy onion topping, perfect for family dinners and vegetable lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter in a heavy saucepan and melt.
- Add zucchini and onion; sauté over medium heat until crisp-tender.
- Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with French fried onions.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting the cream of chicken soup with a homemade cream sauce or a low-fat alternative. You can also use different cheese varieties like mozzarella for a milder taste. If you're short on time, pre-sliced zucchini or frozen zucchini can be used. To enhance flavor, add garlic or bell peppers during the sautéing process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zucchini casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with corey'S chicken spaghetti casserole for a comforting meal. For an added crunch, consider serving with a side of crusty bread or a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elain'S Zucchini Casserole contains roughly 407 calories, with 12g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1112mg per serving (48% 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 different vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you're using vegetables that require longer cooking, such as carrots.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this zucchini casserole can be frozen before baking. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish goes well with grilled chicken or fish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It can also complement dishes like baked chicken and rice for a comforting dinner.
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).