Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe

If your heart skips a beat at the thought of ooey-gooey cheese and garden-fresh zucchini baked to golden perfection, then you’re about to fall in love with this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and topped with a crisp, buttery Panko layer, this comforting dish brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or making an irresistible potluck side, this casserole is the easy crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is how a handful of everyday ingredients work such magic together. Each element adds essential flavor, texture, or color, making every bite both comforting and exciting.

• Zucchini: Fresh, diced zucchini gives this casserole its tender texture and a lovely pop of green.
• Mayonnaise: Adds an unexpected creaminess and tang that keeps each bite perfectly moist and rich.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star of the dish, cheddar gives the casserole its signature cheesy melt and bold flavor.
• Eggs: Slightly beaten, eggs are the binding agents that help hold everything together beautifully.
• Pepper: Brings a subtle, sharp kick that balances every layer of flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Gives a warm, aromatic depth to the casserole — you can adjust the amount to taste!
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Offers that irresistible, crunchy topping and contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
• Butter: Melted and mixed with breadcrumbs for a golden, buttery finish you’ll crave.

How to Make Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Blanch the Zucchini

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, then add your diced zucchini. Blanching for just three minutes softens the zucchini slightly, so it bakes up tender but never mushy. Once it’s ready, drain the zucchini and let it cool a bit — this step helps prevent watery casserole later.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your cooled zucchini with the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, slightly beaten eggs, pepper, and garlic powder. Give everything a gentle stir so the zucchini is evenly coated in that deliciously creamy and cheesy mixture. It should already look and smell tempting!

Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Pour your zucchini mixture into a greased 1 1/2 quart baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly—that way, every scoop will have that perfect balance of creamy zucchini and gooey cheese.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

Now for the finishing touch that takes this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole over the top! Mix the Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter in a separate bowl, making sure each crumb is well-coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly across the top of your casserole for that irresistible, golden crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your casserole uncovered at 350°F for about 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the breadcrumb topping is a glorious golden brown and the zucchini is fork tender. The kitchen will smell so good, you’ll be counting down the minutes until it comes out of the oven!

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle your finished Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a vibrant, colorful touch and a subtle burst of flavor. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, an additional handful of shredded cheddar right after baking adds more melty appeal.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted chicken, or grilled meats, soaking up flavors and elevating the whole meal. For a lighter dinner, serve it alongside a bowl of tomato soup or garlic bread to make even simple nights feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole in small ramekins for adorable individual portions or scoop some onto crusty bread for a sophisticated appetizer. It’s also beautiful in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, farmhouse-style presentation that wows at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly and store in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making that next-day casserole irresistible for a quick lunch or side dish.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze portions of your Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to two months in the freezer — just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat individual portions in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until hot and the topping is crisp again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps that breadcrumb topping nice and crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash is a lovely substitute and blends right in with the flavors and texture of this casserole. Feel free to use all zucchini, all squash, or a colorful mix of both.

Can I make Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole (without the breadcrumb topping), cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add the buttered breadcrumbs right before baking for a fresh, crisp finish.

Does the casserole freeze well?

It sure does. Let it cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. For best taste and texture, thaw in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven until the topping is crisp and the casserole is heated through.

Can I make it gluten-free?

To make this Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar gives the most classic flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a pepper jack for a bit of a kick. The key is to use a good melting cheese that you love.

Final Thoughts

If you crave comfort food that’s bursting with flavor yet a breeze to put together, you’ll want to keep Easy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole on your regular rotation. It’s a little slice of cozy, cheesy heaven that brings smiles to every table. Give it a try and let it become your new favorite side or weeknight winner!

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