When summer gardens are overflowing with zucchini, it’s time to turn those green beauties into something delicious and this Savory Garden Zucchini Casserole is the ultimate way to do it! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender veggies, this easy-baked dish is comforting without being too heavy. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, it’s the perfect way to showcase summer’s best.

Why You’ll Love Savory Garden Zucchini Casserole

This casserole is a must-make for so many reasons:

Garden Fresh Goodness: A great way to use up garden veggies like zucchini, onions, and herbs.
Creamy and Cheesy: Packed with flavor but not overly rich just right.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or even proteins.
Perfect for Potlucks: Easy to transport and reheat.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week!

Ingredients in Savory Garden Zucchini Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Zucchini: Fresh, thinly sliced (or shredded and drained well).
Onion: Sautéed for flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Eggs: Help bind the casserole together.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend your choice!
Breadcrumbs: Add body to the dish and a little crunch on top.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Boosts savory flavor.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): Think parsley, dill, or thyme for garden-fresh flair.
Salt & Pepper: To taste.
Butter or Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding richness.

Instructions

Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Let’s bake!

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

If using shredded zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. If sliced, lay slices on paper towels and pat dry.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until soft and lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Stir in the shredded cheese, seasonings, sautéed onions, drained zucchini, and about half the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish (depending on how thick you want it). Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs and a bit more cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until golden on top and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy zucchini goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: ~180–250 depending on cheese and breadcrumb use

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Savory Garden Zucchini Casserole

This casserole is super versatile serve it as a light main dish or alongside your favorite meals:

• Pair with Grilled Chicken or Fish: A perfect complement to proteins.
• Serve with a Salad: Try it with a crisp cucumber and tomato salad.
• Great for Brunch: Add it to a breakfast spread with eggs and toast.
• Bring to a Potluck: It’s a crowd-pleaser, even for folks who “don’t like veggies.”
• Slice and Pack for Lunch: Tastes great warm or at room temperature.

Additional Tips

Make your zucchini casserole even better with these tips:

• Drain Well: Too much moisture = soggy casserole. Be sure to squeeze or pat dry the zucchini well.
• Add More Veggies: Try chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.
• Make It Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked bacon, sausage, or diced ham.
• Use Different Cheeses: Gruyère, feta, or pepper jack all work beautifully.
• Top It Right: Mix a little parmesan into the breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?
You can freeze it after baking. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

3. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely they’re interchangeable in this dish.

4. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers or crushed cornflakes make a great topping alternative.

5. How do I keep the casserole from being watery?
Make sure to drain your zucchini well, and don’t overbake it can start to weep moisture.

6. What size baking dish works best?
For a thicker casserole, use an 8×8 dish. For thinner layers or larger portions, use a 9×13.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?
Try dairy-free cheese and a plant-based butter or oil substitute.

8. What herbs go best with this?
Fresh dill, thyme, parsley, and chives all pair beautifully with zucchini and cheese.

9. How long does it keep?
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger dish and increase bake time by 5–10 minutes as needed.

Conclusion

Whether you’re swimming in garden zucchini or just craving a cozy veggie-forward casserole, this Savory Garden Zucchini Casserole has your name on it. It’s one of those humble, feel-good dishes that surprises everyone with how satisfying and flavorful it is. Don’t be surprised if your family goes back for seconds even the veggie skeptics!

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