This easy loaded zucchini casserole is a veggie-packed delight! With layers of zucchini, cheese, and a tasty mix of herbs, it’s a dish everyone can enjoy.
You know it’s good when you can’t stop sneaking bites before it’s even out of the oven! I love pairing it with a simple salad for a cozy meal that feels fresh and filling.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Make sure to grate them for even cooking. If you don’t have zucchini, you can substitute with yellow squash or even chopped bell peppers for a different flavor.
Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds great flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using cooked mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative to keep that savory taste.
Cheeses: I usually mix cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect gooey texture. If you want a stronger flavor, use sharp cheddar. For dairy-free options, consider vegan cream cheese and plant-based cheeses.
Cream Cheese: This gives the casserole its rich creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, use cashew cream or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative.
How Do You Prevent a Watery Casserole?
Sweating the zucchini is key to a great texture in this casserole! Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater.
- Place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist it to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Take your time with this step; getting rid of the moisture keeps the casserole from becoming soggy during baking.
This simple technique will help you achieve a firm and delicious casserole every time!
Easy Loaded Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking dish.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater. To eliminate excess moisture, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step helps avoid a watery casserole in the end!
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or whisk to mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Flavor:
Next, gently fold in the crumbled bacon, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese into the mixture. This adds a wonderful flavor and richness to the casserole.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the remaining amounts of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes!
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is melted and golden-brown.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. For a burst of freshness, you can garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if you like.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this warm, creamy, and cheesy casserole as a side dish or a comforting main course. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This loaded zucchini casserole is not only tasty but also a fantastic way to get in those veggies. It’s sure to become a favorite dish at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Loaded Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like grated carrots, chopped bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture, as with the zucchini, to keep the casserole from getting watery.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it well to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing.
