Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe: A Pioneer Woman-Inspired Dish for Family Comfort
Turn surplus summer squash into a creamy baked delight with a satisfyingly crisp topping.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a cozy, flavorful dish that brings together garden-fresh vegetables and creamy cheese, this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a must-try. Adapted from The Pioneer Woman, this recipe is a celebration of summer zucchini, crispy panko, and plenty of melty cheese—making it a satisfying main or an impressive side for gatherings, potlucks, or casual family meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole stands out for its perfect balance of texture and flavor. Tender zucchini and bell peppers are roasted to bring out their sweetness, then layered with a velvety cheese sauce and a golden, crunchy topping. It’s adaptable, crowd-pleasing, and a great way to use up a bounty of summer squash.
Ingredients
You’ll need fresh vegetables, pantry staples, and a few dairy items for this comforting bake:
- 2 1/2 lb. zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan, divided
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided
- 1 1/2 cups panko or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted, plus more for the pan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for a foolproof casserole every time:
Step 1: Roast and Drain the Vegetables
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- On a large sheet tray, combine the zucchini, red bell pepper, and yellow onion.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Roast for 30 minutes, or until the zucchini is slightly softened and has released some liquid.
- Drain the mixture through a colander. Once cool enough to handle, gently press with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this step ensures your casserole isn’t watery.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in grated sharp cheddar, chopped garlic, 1/4 cup grated parmesan, and all but 2 tablespoons of the parsley (reserving the rest for garnish).
- Gently fold in the drained zucchini mixture.
- Transfer everything to a buttered 9×13-inch (three-quart) casserole dish.
Step 3: Make and Add the Crunchy Topping
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Add the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan and the reserved 2 tablespoons of parsley.
- Evenly sprinkle the panko mixture over the zucchini in the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the edges are bubbling, and the center is set.
- If the topping is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld and making slicing easier.
Variations and Tips
This recipe is versatile. Here are some ways to tweak it:
- Swap the cheese: Try a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère for different flavors.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for a heartier dish.
- Vegetable variations: Yellow squash can substitute for zucchini; add tomatoes or mushrooms for extra depth.
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What others are reading
Nutritional Highlights
Zucchini is low in calories, rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. This casserole delivers vegetables and protein from eggs and cheese, making it both nutritious and satisfying. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your cheesy zucchini casserole as a vegetarian main dish with a crisp green salad and crusty bread, or as a hearty side with grilled meats or fish. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or anytime you want a comforting, reliable dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked casserole (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash works beautifully as a substitute for zucchini in this recipe.
How can I prevent a watery casserole?
Roasting vegetables beforehand and draining them well (plus gently pressing with paper towels) removes excess moisture and prevents a soggy casserole.
What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers make a fine substitute for panko in the topping.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking for best results.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free due to the panko topping. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version.
Cooking Pro Tips
- Test for doneness: The casserole is ready when the center is set and the edges are bubbly.
- Avoid skipping the rest time: Letting the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving helps it set and makes slicing cleaner.
- Add herbs for freshness: Consider tossing in basil, chives, or dill along with the parsley for extra flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a classic for a reason. It’s a smart, seasonal way to use up summer zucchini, and it’s endlessly adaptable. The combination of creamy cheese, tender vegetables, and a crisp topping ensures that every bite is a delight. Plus, it’s easy enough for weeknights and special enough for entertaining. No wonder it’s a favorite from The Pioneer Woman’s kitchen.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 70 minutes (total) |
| Total Time | 90 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Serves | 6–8 |
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a celebration of seasonal produce and comforting flavors. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with cheeses, vegetables, and herbs, and enjoy the versatility and heartiness this recipe offers. Happy baking!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a36502497/zucchini-casserole/
- https://countryatheartrecipes.com/2016/06/cheesy-zucchini-casserole/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a65416879/zucchini-lasagna-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a65400498/zucchini-gratin-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g65531365/best-zucchini-recipes/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
