Las Vegas Zucchini
A creamy zucchini casserole with onions, carrots, and a cheesy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or side dishes with a rich, savory flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the large zucchini into 1/2 inch thick pieces.
- Slice the onions.
- Boil the sliced zucchini and onions for 5 minutes.
- Drain and cool the vegetables.
- Place the cooled vegetables and shredded carrot in a casserole dish.
- Mix sour cream, cream of celery soup, and Cheez Whiz together.
- Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the casserole.
- Add pats of butter and croutons on top.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or replacing some of the Cheez Whiz with cream cheese. If you don't have cream of celery, cream of mushroom works well too. For added flavor, try sautéing the onions before boiling them. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish. This recipe is a great way to use up summer zucchini from your garden!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a hearty dinner. For a vegetarian option, pair with a protein-rich dish like Black-Eyed Peas And Rice. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal; just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Las Vegas Zucchini contains roughly 744 calories, with 16g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% 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 recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetables you choose. Make sure to adjust the boiling time accordingly to ensure everything is tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble it and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When you're ready to bake, let it sit out for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature, then bake as directed. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
What can I do if I don’t have Cheez Whiz?
If you don't have Cheez Whiz, you can substitute with shredded cheese like cheddar or a cheese sauce. Simply melt the cheese and mix it in with the sour cream and cream of celery soup. This will give you a similar creamy texture and flavor. Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique tastes!
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).