This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish, filled with tender zucchini and melting cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
I love how this casserole brings veggies to life with gooey cheese! It’s so simple to make that even on busy days, I can whip it up and feel like a chef. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These two are the stars of the dish! They soften beautifully and soak up flavors well. If you can’t find yellow squash, you can use more zucchini or even some eggplant for a different twist.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a great melty texture. Feel free to swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor. For a twist, add some feta or goat cheese!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These add creaminess and richness to the casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work well as a substitute for either of these.
Breadcrumbs: They give a nice crunch on top, but if you want it gluten-free, you can use crushed cornflakes or omit it altogether for a softer finish.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Without Burning Them?
Sautéing veggies is a great way to enhance their flavor. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding vegetables.
- Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning. Stir often for even cooking.
- Cook until soft but not mushy. Zucchini and squash should be tender but still retain some bite for the casserole.
This will help keep your veggies flavorful and add depth to your casserole!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Binding Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
Other Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole can be made in about 15 minutes of preparation time and will need 30-35 minutes in the oven. So, in about an hour, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sautĂ© for about 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent. Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
3. Cook the Zucchini and Squash:
Now, add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are just tender. Season the veggies with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Mix the Cheese and Cream Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and eggs until well combined. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy mixture.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Add the sautéed vegetables to the cheese mixture and stir everything together until well mixed. You want all those delicious flavors to come together!
6. Pour Into Casserole Dish:
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Then, dig in and enjoy your cheesy, comforting zucchini squash casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on how quickly the veggies cook.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead by assembling it and then covering it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or you can microwave it for a quick reheating option!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot all the way through.
