Recipe – Zucchini and Cheddar Casserole

If you are looking for a good, cheesy vegetable dish, the Zucchini and cheddar casserole is a perfect option for you. Zucchinis are readily available in many farmers’ markets and local grocery stores. This easy-to-prepare zucchini and cheddar casserole recipe will help you prepare a quick creamy side dish or an indulgent, fall-themed main dish for weeknight dinners. Whatever the occasion, this recipe will become a standout dish that everyone will love.

Basic Recipe Information

Approximate Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Approximate Cook time:

• 40hours

Total Time:

• 1 hour

Servings:

• 6 servings

Required Equipment

• Knife
• Baking dish
• Measuring Cup
• Spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Oven

Ingredients

• 3 large zucchinis (approx. 6 cups or 3 lbs) sliced into medallions
• 1/2  tablespoon salt
• 1/4 chopped onions (optional)
• 1/3 cup of heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons butter sliced into small pieces
• 1 1/2 cups (approx. 6 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 large chopped onion
• 3 large eggs slightly beaten
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoon chopped basil (more/less depending on your flavor preference)
• Basil, chives, or parsley for garnish

Preparation Directions

• Gather the ingredients
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F/ 180 degrees C.
• Wash the Zucchini and slice into small 1/4 inch thick, medallions pieces.
• Wash the basil, dry with paper towels, and cut them into thin slices
• Spray nonstick spray or olive oil onto a8″ x 8″ or 8″ x 11″ baking dish
• Add the sliced Zu  cchini to the baking dish. Sprinkle mix with salt, add some of the chopped onions and basil, and mix.
• Layer the Zucchini with a 1/2  cup of shredded cheddar cheese and set aside.
• Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl.
• Pour mixed cream sauce over the Zucchini and spread it evenly.
• Scatter the remaining butter pieces and chopped onions over the Zucchini and sauce.
• Bake uncovered on the center rack of your oven at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes. It should be bubbly, and the edges should be nicely browned
• Sprinkle with chopped basil, chives, or parsley for garnish
• Let your creamy casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving
• The leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days

Recipe Variations

• You can use yellow squash instead of Zucchini.
• You can add crumbled cooked bacon or shredded chicken breasts
• If you are a lover of garlic flavor, you can add a teaspoonful of finely chopped garlic
• You can add black pepper for a richer flavor

Cook’s Note: Zucchini have thin and tender skin; hence there is no need for peeling them.

How to Serve/Plate and Garnish

You can garnish your cheesy zucchini casserole with different herbs such as chopped basil, chives, or parsley. For a creamier dish, add some melting cheese such as mozzarella as a topping. This classic side dish can go well with most meals to make a hearty family dinner or serve as a light main dish.

When prepared as a side dish, you can serve your casserole with:     

• Steak
• Meatloaf
• Roast chicken
• Pork chops
• Fish