Name: Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole: A Delicious Disaster
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter

Jump to Recipe

Oh my goodness, it’s zucchini season again! You know what that means, right? We’re practically swimming in the stuff! My garden is overflowing, my neighbors are gifting it, and even the local farm stand is practically *giving* it away. So, what’s a cook to do? We need creative recipes, stat! And that’s where this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole comes in.

Seriously, last year I swear I had zucchini coming out of my ears. I think I even dreamt about it! I needed something beyond just grilling it (which, let’s be honest, gets old after the third night in a row). This casserole is my absolute go-to. It’s simple, it’s delicious, it’s cheesy (need I say more?), and it makes a *fantastic* side dish. Trust me, even the zucchini-skeptics in your family will be asking for seconds. It’s truly a recipe perfected from years of zucchini growing and casserole making!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Okay, so why *this* casserole? Let me tell you, there are a million zucchini recipes out there, but this one? This one’s special. Here’s why you’re gonna be obsessed:

Quick and Easy Side Dish

Seriously, you can throw this together in like, 15 minutes. Just slice, mix, and bake! Perfect for busy weeknights when you just don’t have the energy for a complicated side.

Cheesy and Delicious Flavor

Hello, cheese! The cheddar gets all melty and bubbly, and it’s the *perfect* complement to the mild zucchini. It’s savory, comforting, and just plain yummy. My favorite part is that golden-brown cheese crust!

Kid-Friendly Vegetable Recipe

Want to sneak some extra veggies into your kids’ diet? This is the way to do it! The cheese makes everything better, right? They’ll be gobbling up zucchini without even realizing it!

Versatile Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can add different veggies, switch up the cheese, or throw in some herbs and spices. It’s totally customizable to your taste. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

Ingredients for Your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty basic stuff!

4 medium zucchini, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick, nothing fancy!)
1 small onion, chopped (yellow or white, whatever you’ve got!)
2 cloves garlic, minced (I’m a garlic girl, so sometimes I sneak in a third!)
1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat is best for that creamy texture, but low-fat works in a pinch)
1/4 cup mayonnaise (don’t @ me! It adds a certain *something*… but you can use Greek yogurt if you’re feeling virtuous)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste, I’m a bit heavy-handed with the salt, oops!)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always better, if you have it)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I like sharp cheddar for that extra zing, but mild works great too!)
1/2 cup bread crumbs (plain ol’ bread crumbs are perfect, but panko will give you extra crunch!)
2 tablespoons melted butter (unsalted, so you can control the saltiness)

Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole - detail 1

How to Make Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, are you ready to get cooking? This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is so simple, you’ll be amazed. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish on the table in no time!

Preparing the Zucchini Mixture

First things first, let’s get that zucchini ready! In a large bowl (the biggest one you’ve got!), toss together your sliced zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Now, sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Give everything a good mix until all the zucchini is nicely coated. This is where the magic starts, trust me!

Assembling the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Topping

Time for the best part – the cheesy topping! In a separate bowl (a smaller one this time!), combine your shredded cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, and melted butter. Use a fork to kinda toss it all together until the breadcrumbs are nice and buttery and the cheese is evenly distributed. This is what’s gonna give you that golden, crispy, cheesy crust we all crave!

Baking Your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Alright, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Now, pour your zucchini mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle that glorious cheese mixture all over the top. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs – we don’t want it dry!).

Serving the Best Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Patience, my friend! Once it’s out of the oven, let that Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole stand for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives it a chance to set up a bit and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it’s less likely to burn your tongue! Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Want to take your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole from good to *amazing*? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve! First off, don’t skip salting the zucchini! If you’ve got the time, toss the sliced zucchini with a teaspoon of salt and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients. This draws out excess moisture, so your casserole isn’t watery. Then, pat it dry with paper towels.

Also, don’t be shy with the cheese! A generous layer of cheddar (or whatever cheese your heart desires!) is key. And for extra crispy breadcrumbs? Try toasting them lightly in a dry skillet before mixing them with the melted butter. It’s a game changer, I swear!

Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Variations

Okay, so you’ve made the basic Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, and you’re loving it! But what if you want to mix things up a little? No problem! This recipe is super adaptable. Try swapping out the cheddar for some Gruyere or Monterey Jack. Ooh, or even a little bit of crumbled feta for a tangy twist!

And don’t be afraid to play with the veggies! Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some cherry tomatoes would be delicious. As for herbs and spices, a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a whole new dimension of flavor. My favorite is adding a little fresh basil at the end…so good!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Alright, you’ve got your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole fresh out of the oven…but what to serve with it? Well, it’s fantastic as a side dish with pretty much any main course! I love it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It’s also amazing with a juicy steak. For a vegetarian meal, try pairing it with a hearty lentil soup or a big, colorful salad.

Honestly, sometimes I just eat it straight out of the dish with a fork! No judgment, okay? It’s also great for potlucks and summer BBQs. Everyone always loves it!

Storing and Reheating Your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is just as good (maybe even better!) the next day. Just pop it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can microwave it (but it might get a little soft) or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through. A little sprinkle of fresh cheese on top never hurts, either!

Is Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Healthy?

Okay, so let’s talk nutrition! Now, I’m no nutritionist, but I can tell you that this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole *does* have veggies! Keep in mind that nutritional content can vary quite a bit depending on the brands and specific ingredients you use, so I can’t give you exact numbers. Just sayin’!

Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole FAQs

Got questions about this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole? I figured you might! Here are some of the most common things people ask me, so hopefully, this helps!

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Okay, so technically, *yes*, you *can* use frozen zucchini. But honestly? I don’t really recommend it. Frozen zucchini tends to be super watery, and it can make your casserole a bit soggy. If you *absolutely* have to use it, make sure you thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible!

Can I make this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

You sure can! This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a great make-ahead dish. Just assemble it completely (but don’t bake it!), cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Easy peasy!

What other cheese can I use in this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to experiment! Gruyere would be amazing, or even a little bit of Swiss. Monterey Jack is always a crowd-pleaser, and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top would add a nice nutty flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheesy Easy Zucchini Casserole!

Rate and Review This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

So, did you love this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole as much as I do? I sure hope so! If you tried it, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think! And don’t forget to rate the recipe – it helps other zucchini lovers find it! Sharing is caring, so spread the cheesy goodness on social media too!