Baked Zucchini Casserole

Elevate Your Dinner Table with Baked Zucchini Casserole

If you’re searching for a delicious and nutritious side dish to accompany your meals, look no further than this delightful Baked Zucchini Casserole. Packed with fresh zucchini, savory Parmesan cheese, and a hint of bell pepper and onion, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or your favorite protein, this dish is a versatile and satisfying addition to any menu. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of making this flavorful casserole, along with some helpful tips, variations, and keto-friendly options.

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 1/4 cup Green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup Onion
  • 4 cups Zucchini

Refrigerated:

  • 2 Eggs, large

Condiments:

  • 1 cup Mayonnaise

Baking & Spices:

  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Oils & Vinegars:

  • Cooking spray

Dairy:

  • 1 tbsp Salted butter
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: Wash the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. Trim the ends off the zucchini and slice them into thin rounds. Dice the bell pepper and onion into small pieces.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add the mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper, and whisk until well combined.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Add the sliced zucchini to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss until the zucchini is evenly coated.
  6. Layer Casserole: Spread half of the zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini mixture and sautéed vegetables.
  7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and serve warm.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or diced ham to the casserole before baking.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta, for added flavor.
  • Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the casserole by adding fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, basil, or parsley to the egg mixture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some simple adjustments to make this recipe keto-friendly:

  • Mayonnaise Substitute: Use a keto-friendly mayonnaise made with avocado oil or olive oil instead of traditional mayonnaise, which often contains added sugars.
  • Reduced Carbohydrates: Reduce the amount of onion used in the recipe to lower the carb content further.
  • Almond Flour Topping: Replace the Parmesan cheese topping with a mixture of almond flour, shredded cheese, and melted butter for a crunchy, low-carb topping.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover baked zucchini casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this Baked Zucchini Casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just be sure to check the labels of any packaged ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Baked Zucchini Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck or picnic, this flavorful casserole is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to time and time again. So gather your ingredients and give this tasty casserole a try – your taste buds will thank you!