Zucchini Imperial
A creamy, cheesy zucchini casserole with a savory onion and green pepper flavor, topped with bread crumbs and butter, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil zucchini in 2 cups of water until just tender, then drain.
- Beat eggs in a bowl; stir in mayonnaise, chopped onion, green pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked zucchini to the egg mixture and combine well.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Dot the top with 1 tablespoon of butter and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or Italian herbs into the egg mixture. If you want a lower-fat option, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. For a heartier dish, add cooked ground meat or chickpeas. Using seasonal zucchini will enhance the freshness of the dish. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy vegetarian recipes, making it a great option for Meatless Mondays.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Zucchini Imperial as a main dish alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Butterscotch-Walnut Bread for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving it with Pork Chops - Rice. This dish also makes a great side at potlucks or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Imperial contains roughly 993 calories, with 19g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1237mg per serving (54% 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 recipe?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for best texture, you can use frozen zucchini. Just ensure it's thawed and drained well to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer a vegan option. Nutritional yeast is another great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish and bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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).