This Loaded Zucchini Casserole is a fantastic mix of cheesy goodness, veggies, and tasty spices. It’s a great way to enjoy healthy zucchini while still keeping things fun and delicious!
I love how this dish can be a side or a main meal. You can even sneak in extra veggies if you’re feeling sneaky! Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here, providing bulk and texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well as a substitute.
Cheeses: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a great melt and flavor. You can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or even crumbled tempeh.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: These add creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream.
Mayonnaise: It adds moisture to the casserole. You can leave it out if you want a lighter dish or substitute with an additional dollop of sour cream.
How Can I Perfectly Sauté the Vegetables?
Sautéing the vegetables correctly is key to enhancing their flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat and allow the oil to warm up. This helps the onions cook evenly.
- Add the onions and garlic first; cook for about 5 minutes until they become fragrant and soft.
- Then, add the zucchini. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them sauté rather than steam.
- Stir occasionally and watch for a slight golden brown; it takes about 5-7 minutes. Season it right before removing to enhance flavors!
Following these steps will give your casserole a delicious base! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Loaded Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced or diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Loaded Zucchini Casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes to bake, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a lovely weekend dish with family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your casserole!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the sliced or diced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed zucchini mixture, halved cherry tomatoes, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Add the Bacon:
Gently fold in the crumbled cooked bacon to the vegetable mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the veggie and cheese mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top, creating a lovely cheesy crust.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top has melted, become bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This helps set the layers a bit before serving.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Loaded Zucchini Casserole—perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
Bon appétit! 🎉
FAQ for Loaded Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for optimal texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using it in the casserole to prevent it from becoming watery.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for flavor. You might also want to increase the cheese slightly for a satisfying texture!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead. Assemble the casserole (without baking it), cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven, and then bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can add a little extra cheese on top before reheating for a yummy melty finish!
