Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Hey there, veggie lovers! The Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh taste of zucchini with rich cheeses and crispy breadcrumbs. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a satisfying side dish. It’s easy to prepare and showcases the wonderful flavors of summer squash in a convenient and comforting way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this casserole in the oven before you know it.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar creates a cheesy delight that will please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with various proteins or stands alone as a vegetarian option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with shredded zucchini, this casserole is loaded with nutrients while being light on calories.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this tasty dish without realizing they’re eating their veggies!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Grater
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor throughout the casserole.
• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your casserole.
• Grater: Makes shredding zucchini quick and easy while also being useful for cheese.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

• 4 cups shredded zucchini (from approximately 3.5 medium zucchinis)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup finely chopped or shredded onion
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic (around 3 cloves)

For the Cheesy Mixture

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus 2 tablespoons more)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup panko crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter with salt

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Make Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves a golden top.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

• In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, salt, chopped onion, and garlic. Mix well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
• Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow excess moisture from the zucchini to release.

Step 3: Combine Cheese Mixture

• In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

• After letting the zucchini sit, squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
• Add the drained zucchini mixture to the cheese mixture. Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

• Transfer your combined mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
• In a small bowl, mix together the remaining parmesan cheese, panko crumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle this topping over your casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole, packed with flavor and goodness!

How to Serve Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Serving your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole can elevate any meal. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance its delicious flavors.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot from the oven for a comforting meal. The cheesy goodness will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair with a mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Alongside Grilled Chicken

• Complement your casserole with grilled chicken breast. The smoky flavor balances perfectly with the cheesy zucchini.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for sopping up any melted cheese and adds a delightful crunch.

How to Perfect Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

To make your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole even better, consider these tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use fresh zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini retains more moisture and flavor than pre-packaged options.
• Drain excess moisture: After shredding, let the zucchini sit with salt for about 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid for a firmer casserole.
• Experiment with cheeses: Mix different cheeses like gouda or feta for added flavors and textures.
• Customize spice levels: Add crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an extra kick that suits your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavors of the casserole.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Adds nutrition and vibrant color; drizzle with olive oil and lemon.
3. Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots bring a natural sweetness to balance the savory casserole.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light yet filling option that provides protein and fiber; toss with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
5. Cucumber Pickles: A tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully against the creamy texture of the dish.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well; season with herbs to enhance its taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overlooking moisture: Zucchini has a high water content. Squeeze out excess moisture before mixing to ensure a firm casserole.
• Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick to mozzarella and parmesan for optimal texture and flavor.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mixture. A pinch of salt goes a long way in enhancing the dish’s flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a nice golden crust on top.
• Ignoring cooking times: Keep an eye on your casserole as it cooks. Every oven is different, so check for doneness around the 20-minute mark.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in freezer bags.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals for even warming.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole.

How do I make Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole gluten-free?

You can substitute panko crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar crunch.

Can I add other vegetables to my Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with my Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You could also enjoy it with some crusty bread.

How can I customize the cheese in my Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole?

Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for unique flavors. Just ensure they melt well!

Final Thoughts

The Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and cheeses based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy an easy-to-make dish that everyone will love!

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Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Enjoy this quick baked zucchini parmesan casserole that’s cheesy, savory, and perfect for any meal. Try it today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups shredded zucchini (about 3.5 medium zucchinis)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus 2 tablespoons for topping)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup panko crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded zucchini, salt, onion, and garlic. Let sit for about 10 minutes to release moisture.
3. Whisk together eggs, parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar in another bowl until well combined.
4. Squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini mixture using a clean kitchen towel. Fold into the cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining parmesan cheese mixed with panko crumbs and melted butter.
6. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 256
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 118mg