Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Name: Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups sliced zucchini; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 eggs; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen Creations

I love making this Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole because it’s a delightfully creamy dish that showcases the best of summer's zucchini harvest. Each bite is a melty blend of cheeses and tender veggies, making it a comforting addition to any family gathering. What I enjoy the most is how simple it is to prepare, and it’s perfect for getting kids involved in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy veggies while still being indulgent, satisfying everyone at the table.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:19:15.202Z

When I first made this casserole, I was surprised by how quickly it disappeared! The combination of zucchini with a crisp topping creates an irresistible contrast that my family loves. The garlic and herbs add depth and elevate the entire dish. I’ve experimented with different cheeses and have found that a mix of cheddar and mozzarella yields the best results, offering a wonderful texture and cheesiness.

Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Allowing it to sit for about 10 minutes helps the casserole firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. I can’t tell you how many times I've rushed this step, only to end up with a delicious but messy serving. Trust me, patience pays off with this one!

Why You'll Love This Casserole
Deliciously cheesy with a creamy texture
A great way to use fresh summer zucchini
Perfect for family gatherings and potlucks

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Cheesy Zucchini Casserole lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, seasonal zucchini brings a bright flavor and tender texture that frozen or older zucchinis can’t match. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis; they have a better seed-to-flesh ratio and are less watery, which helps the casserole set perfectly. In choosing cheeses, feel free to experiment with aged cheddar for a sharper flavor or a dollop of cream cheese for added creaminess.

The ricotta cheese plays an essential role in achieving the creamy consistency of the casserole. It binds all the ingredients together while adding richness without the heaviness of heavy cream. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat ricotta or even cottage cheese, but be mindful that it may alter the texture slightly. The eggs act as a binding agent, so avoid omitting them as they are crucial for the casserole's structure.

Tips for Perfect Baking

Proper baking time is key to getting that beautiful golden-brown crust on top while ensuring the zucchini is perfectly tender. Keep an eye on the casserole; at around the 25-minute mark, check for doneness. You’re aiming for the top to be nicely crisp and bubble slightly. If the top is browning too quickly before the center is set, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the final five to ten minutes to prevent burning.

After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about ten minutes. This rest time is vital as it allows the layers to settle, preventing the dish from becoming too watery when cut. If serving at a potluck or family gathering, consider using a wooden spatula for easier lifting. This minimizes breakage and allows for a more appealing presentation.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Casserole

4 cups sliced zucchini
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 eggs
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

These simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful dish.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Add Topping

In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with olive oil until coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the zucchini mixture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

And there you have it—a comforting, cheesy dish ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add diced tomatoes or chopped bell peppers to the veggie mixture. Additionally, experimenting with different cheese blends can lead to exciting new flavors.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Cheesy Zucchini Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For best results, cover it with foil to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat, but be careful not to overheat as it can cause the texture to become rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above. Keep in mind that freezing can slightly change the texture, but the flavors remain delightful.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Cheesy Zucchini Casserole! Adding cooked ground turkey or chicken can transform it into a heartier dish, ideal for a satisfying main course. Consider incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. These can be mixed in with the zucchini or placed in layers for an attractive presentation.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swapping regular breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs is an easy fix. Additionally, you can go dairy-free by using vegan cheese alternatives and a flax egg instead of chicken eggs. These adjustments can make the dish suitable for various dietary preferences while still being delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted chicken for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! After it cools, you can freeze leftover portions. Just reheat in the oven when you're ready to enjoy again.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.