Nancy'S Zucchini Casserole
Creamy zucchini casserole combines tender zucchini, savory stuffing, and a rich chicken-sour cream sauce, making it a comforting choice for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded carrots together in a bowl.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the sliced zucchini with the chopped onion for 5 minutes until tender.
- Drain the cooked zucchini and stir it into the soup mixture.
- Combine the stuffing mix with the melted butter until evenly coated.
- Layer half of the stuffing mixture at the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Add the vegetable mixture over the stuffing layer.
- Top with the remaining stuffing mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 35 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the zucchini with garlic powder or Italian herbs before mixing it into the casserole. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This zucchini casserole is a fantastic side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving it alongside a protein like baked chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven method helps retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nancy'S Zucchini Casserole contains roughly 1025 calories, with 14g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (164% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1387mg per serving (60% 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 casserole?
While fresh zucchini is preferred for its texture, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. This will help maintain the desired consistency and prevent a watery dish.
Can I make this zucchini casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking point, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking.
What can I use instead of Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix?
If you don't have Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix, you can use any dry bread crumbs or homemade stuffing mix. Just season the crumbs with herbs and spices to mimic the flavor profile. This allows for flexibility and customization based on your pantry ingredients.
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).