Ultimate Zucchini Casserole Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Zucchini casserole is a quintessential comfort food dish, perfect for using up that summer abundance of zucchini. This recipe for Zucchini Casserole II takes the classic and elevates it, delivering a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying experience. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece!

Why This Zucchini Casserole Recipe Works

* **Creamy and Cheesy:** The combination of sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and decadent sauce that perfectly complements the mild flavor of zucchini.
* **Versatile:** This recipe is easily customizable. You can add different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to suit your preferences.
* **Perfect for Using Zucchini:** If you have an overabundance of zucchini from your garden or the farmer’s market, this casserole is a delicious way to use it up.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole is a breeze to prepare.
* **Freezable:** Make ahead and freeze for a convenient meal later. Simply thaw and bake when ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients. It is crucial to have good quality ingredients for the best flavor.

* **Zucchini:** The star of the show! Use about 4-5 medium-sized zucchini, thinly sliced. Fresh zucchini is always best.
* **Onion:** Adds a savory depth of flavor. One medium-sized onion, chopped.
* **Butter:** For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the casserole. Salted or unsalted, your preference.
* **Cream of Mushroom Soup:** Provides a creamy base for the sauce. One can (10.75 ounces).
* **Sour Cream:** Adds tanginess and creaminess. One cup.
* **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** Use your favorite cheddar cheese for a sharp and cheesy flavor. Two cups, divided.
* **Garlic Powder:** Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. One teaspoon.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Adjust according to your preference.
* **Bread Crumbs:** For a crispy topping. One cup.
* **Melted Butter (for topping):** To help the breadcrumbs brown. Two tablespoons.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Zucchini Casserole II.

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini and Onion

1. Wash and thinly slice the zucchini. You can use a mandoline for even slices, or simply slice it with a knife. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Chop the onion into small pieces. A fine dice will ensure it cooks evenly and blends well into the casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. This step is important to mellow out the onion’s harshness.
3. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as the soup and cheese will also add saltiness.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the vegetables cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Vegetables and Sauce

1. Add the sautéed zucchini and onion to the bowl with the sauce.
2. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
3. Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter.
2. Mix well until the bread crumbs are evenly coated with butter.

Step 7: Add the Topping and Cheese

1. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the zucchini mixture in the baking dish.
2. Top with the buttered bread crumb mixture, spreading it evenly over the cheese.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
2. Check the casserole periodically to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 9: Let it Rest and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Zucchini Casserole

* **Don’t Overcook the Zucchini:** Overcooked zucchini can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
* **Salt the Zucchini:** If your zucchini is very watery, you can salt the sliced zucchini and let it sit for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry before sautéing.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a lovely flavor to the casserole. Add them to the vegetable mixture before baking.
* **Experiment with Cheese:** Try different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyere, for a unique flavor profile.
* **Add Protein:** For a heartier casserole, add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the vegetable mixture.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Make it Vegetarian/Vegan:** Use plant-based sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and cheese alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan version.
* **Customize the Topping:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the bread crumb topping for added texture and flavor. Crushed Ritz crackers also make a delicious topping.

Variations on Zucchini Casserole

This Zucchini Casserole II recipe is a fantastic base to build upon. Here are a few variations to try:

* **Mexican Zucchini Casserole:** Add corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning to the vegetable mixture. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
* **Italian Zucchini Casserole:** Add Italian sausage, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the vegetable mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
* **Mediterranean Zucchini Casserole:** Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the vegetable mixture. Top with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano.
* **Summer Vegetable Casserole:** Add other summer vegetables like yellow squash, bell peppers, and eggplant to the zucchini mixture for a colorful and flavorful casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini Casserole II is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

* **Side Dish:** Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
* **Main Course:** Enjoy it as a vegetarian main course with a side salad.
* **Potluck Dish:** Bring it to a potluck or barbecue for a crowd-pleasing dish.
* **Holiday Side Dish:** Include it as part of your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make-Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the bread crumb topping just before baking.
* **Storage:** Store leftover Zucchini Casserole II in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
* **Freezing:** To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 250-300 per serving
* Fat: 15-20 grams
* Protein: 10-15 grams
* Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams

*Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Conclusion

Zucchini Casserole II is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and customizable nature, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, grab those zucchinis and get ready to bake a casserole that will impress everyone. Enjoy!