Zucchini Cheese Casserole
A comforting zucchini cheese casserole featuring tender zucchini, savory cottage cheese, and fresh tomatoes, topped with Parmesan. This dish offers a creamy, cheesy flavor with aromatic herbs, perfect for a light family dinner or a vegetarian main course that highlights fresh summer produce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute zucchini and chopped onion in oil until tender.
- Whip cottage cheese with basil and oregano in a blender until smooth.
- Layer zucchini, cottage cheese mixture, and sliced tomatoes in a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
When sautéing the zucchini and onion, ensure not to overcook them as they'll continue to soften in the oven. For a twist, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Low-fat cottage cheese can be substituted with ricotta for a creamier consistency, and fresh herbs like thyme can replace basil for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also works well as a side dish for barbecues or family gatherings, complementing many American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals while covering to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Cheese Casserole contains roughly 823 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 13g 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
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).