This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is a yummy and comforting dish packed with fresh zucchini and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck!
I love how simple it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and bake! Plus, the cheesy goodness makes it a hit with everyone, even those who say they don’t like veggies! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These are the stars of the dish! Fresh zucchini and yellow squash add a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find them, you could use eggplant or even bell peppers for a different twist.
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that melty goodness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheeses work well too. Vegan cheese can also be used if you want a dairy-free version!
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you want more protein. You can also use cottage cheese for a different texture.
Mayonnaise: It adds richness. If you’re avoiding eggs, opt for a vegan mayonnaise. On the flip side, you can skip it entirely for a lighter casserole.
How Do You Make Sure the Casserole Comes Out Perfectly?
Getting that golden top and creaminess is key in this casserole. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure to thinly slice the zucchini and squash so they cook evenly.
- Sautéing the onions and garlic first helps infuse great flavor into the dish.
- Don’t skip letting the casserole rest after baking—this helps it set and makes slicing easier!
- If you like a crunchy topping, bake the casserole uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy casserole that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 3 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to bake, so you can have it ready in about 1 hour total. Perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to your casserole!
3. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchini and yellow squash. Add in the sautéed onions and garlic. Give it a gentle mix to combine everything!
4. Create the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, eggs, salt, pepper, and dried basil (or Italian seasoning). This mixture will bring all the flavors together and give the casserole its creamy goodness.
5. Combine and Mix:
Add the creamy mixture to the bowl with the veggies. Stir everything together until well combined. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top it with the remaining Parmesan cheese and, if desired, sprinkle bread crumbs on top for a crunchy finish!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and the top golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole!
This dish makes a fantastic side or a light main. Feel free to get creative—add cooked bacon, mushrooms, or your favorite herbs for extra flavor!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
