Zucchini Casserole Ii
A savory zucchini casserole with cheddar, basil, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for light vegetarian dinners or side dishes that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine shredded zucchini, stale breadcrumbs, chopped onion, grated Cheddar cheese, olive oil, beaten eggs, and minced basil; mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of ricotta cheese or cottage cheese to the mixture. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute fresh basil for the dried version for enhanced flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
This zucchini casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a hearty vegetarian option, try it alongside a light pasta dish or with slices of crusty bread. It's an ideal comfort food for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are warmed evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Casserole Ii contains roughly 372 calories, with 15g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (135% of the Daily Value), calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 12g 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?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming soggy. Fresh zucchini is preferable for texture, but frozen can work in a pinch.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the zucchini mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply transfer it to the baking dish and cook as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.
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).