Easy Baked Zucchini Casserole Recipe – Perfect Summer BBQ Side Dish

Looking for a delicious and easy side dish to complement your summer BBQ? This easy baked zucchini casserole recipe is the perfect choice! Packed with tender zucchini, gooey cheese, and a crispy golden topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare and always a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a family potluck or a rustic grilled meal, this cheesy summer veggie bake will steal the show.

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that shines in this comforting casserole. Its mild flavor pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy layers, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to use up an abundance of summer zucchini from your garden or local market.

For more zucchini inspiration, check out this baked zucchini, spinach, and feta casserole or this cheesy baked zucchini and corn casserole.

Ingredients

• 4 cups zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Zucchini: Place the sliced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
4. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the sliced zucchini evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the zucchini and spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm as a side dish for your summer BBQ or family meal.

Expert Tips

• Remove Excess Moisture: Salting and patting dry the zucchini helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend. Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can add a fun twist.
• Add a Crunch: For extra texture, mix in some crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs with the topping.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

FAQ

Can I freeze this zucchini casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash or a mix of zucchini and yellow squash works beautifully in this recipe.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, chicken, or fish. It’s also a great addition to a potluck spread. For a complete meal, serve it with a fresh salad like this summer peach burrata salad.

This easy baked zucchini casserole is a must-try for your next summer gathering. Its cheesy goodness and simple preparation make it a standout side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the flavors of summer with this bright and comforting bake!

Easy Baked Zucchini Casserole Recipe – Perfect Summer BBQ Side Dish

This easy baked zucchini casserole is a delicious and crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for summer BBQs. Packed with tender zucchini, gooey cheese, and a crispy golden topping, it’s simple to prepare and always a hit at gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 4 cups zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Place the sliced zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic.
5. Spread the sliced zucchini evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the zucchini and spread it out evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm as a side dish for your summer BBQ or family meal.

Notes

Salting and patting dry the zucchini helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Customize the cheese blend or add crushed crackers for extra texture. The casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated.