Best 2 Hearty Zucchini Casserole Recipes

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Calling all zucchini enthusiasts! If you're searching for a culinary creation that brims with flavor and versatility, look no further. Our hearty zucchini casserole is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring tender zucchini ribbons harmoniously blended with aromatic herbs, succulent tomatoes, and a chorus of melted cheeses. This delectable dish effortlessly transitions from a hearty main course to a delightful side, making it a culinary chameleon. From the classic zucchini casserole graced with a golden parmesan crust to the tantalizing Greek-inspired version boasting feta and spinach, this article presents a kaleidoscope of zucchini casserole recipes that cater to diverse palates. Let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey as we explore the depths of this versatile vegetable.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

HEARTY ZUCCHINI AND TUNA CASSEROLE



Hearty Zucchini and Tuna Casserole image

This is a nice change from the traditional tuna casserole. You can substitute canned salmon for the tuna and can also make this without the zucchini (or use some mixed veggies or broccoli instead). My young daughters love this recipe (as long as I peel the zucchini before putting it in the casserole)!

Provided by Musical Joy

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 50m

Yield 1 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 -2 can chunk-style tuna
6 ounces uncooked egg noodles (3 cups)
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/3 cup sliced green onion
1/2-2/3 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons yellow mustard
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1/4-1/2 teaspoon salt
1 small zucchini, scrubbed,sliced
1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese or 1 cup monterey jack and cheddar cheese blend
1 medium tomatoes, chopped

Steps:

  • Drain and flake the tuna.
  • Set aside.
  • Cook noodles according to package directions.
  • Drain and rinse in hot water.
  • Combine noodles with the tuna, celery and green onions.
  • Blend in the sour cream, mustard, mayo, thyme and salt.
  • Spoon half the mixture into a buttered 2-quart casserole.
  • Top with half the zucchini.
  • Repeat layers.
  • Top with the cheese.
  • Bake uncovered at 350 for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
  • Sprinkle with the chopped tomato.

HEARTY ZUCCHINI CASSEROLE



Hearty Zucchini Casserole image

I have been making this Main Dish casserole for years. Found it in an old cookbook from years back. It is a hearty filling meal & uses up summer vegetables of zucchini & corn. My husband particularly likes it. I recently added variations, to the recipe, that might be enjoyed.

Provided by Sharon Colyer

Categories     Casseroles

Time 1h10m

Number Of Ingredients 20

cooking spray
3 medium zucchini, after cooked, half per layer
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
cooked beef and onion mixture, half per layer
1 1/2 c fresh corn, or 1 (15 oz.) canned corn, or 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen corn, thawed
1/2 medium green bell pepper, chopped
2 Tbsp water (optional)
2 eggs, beaten
4 oz mild cheddar cheese, shredded, half per layer
1 tsp garlic powder, (optional) half per layer
salt
pepper
1 can(s) (10 oz.) tomato soup (do not dilute), half per layer
1 c bread crumbs
1 Tbsp melted butter
******VARIATIONS******
as many sliced tomatoes needed to place the slices around the edge of the casserole or for the whole top, to replace tomato soup.
option of garlic powder or garlic salt to sprinkle on tomato slices.
may still use bread crumbs over them, if desired.

Steps:

  • 1. Spray with cooking spray or grease a 9 x 13 in. baking dish. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • 2. Wash and slice zucchini; do not peel. Slices should be about 1/4 in. thick. Precook in microwave oven, until mostly cooked. Let them cool.
  • 3. Meanwhile, spray skillet with cooking spray. Brown ground beef in a large skillet with the onion; drain off grease. Remove excess grease from skillet with paper towels. The hamburger can stay in the skillet, while wiping areas of grease away.
  • 4. If using canned corn, drain about half of the water away. The other corn is fine like it is, if you are using one of them, instead of canned. Put skillet with hamburger back on the burner and add corn & green bell pepper. Cook 5-8 mins., if mixture is too dry, add 2 Tbs. water & stir. Then, add beaten eggs. Stir mixture constantly, until eggs are set (cooked). Remove from heat.
  • 5. Shred the cheese. Or use, already shredded cheese from the store (not fine shred).
  • 6. In sprayed baking dish, add ingredients in layers: half of zucchini on the bottom, sprinkle with half the garlic powder, if using; salt and pepper to taste, if you like; then half of meat mixture, half of the soup--straight out of the can dropping in dollops, and half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
  • 7. Place bread crumbs in a small bowl, melt butter, pour butter over crumbs and stir to mix. Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top of the casserole. OR, try one of the variations of sliced tomatoes, with or without garlic power or garlic salt. You may still use bread crumbs over them, if you like.
  • 8. Cook in preheated oven, for 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven. Let sit 5-10 minutes.

Tips:

  • Choose fresh, firm zucchini: The best zucchini for this casserole are those that are young and have a deep green color. Avoid zucchini that are yellow or have blemishes.
  • Use a sharp knife to grate the zucchini: This will help to ensure that the zucchini cooks evenly and doesn't become mushy.
  • Don't overcook the zucchini: The zucchini should be cooked until it is tender but still has a slight crunch. Overcooking will make the zucchini mushy.
  • Use a variety of cheeses: The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses gives this casserole a rich and flavorful flavor. You can also experiment with other types of cheeses, such as feta, Gruyère, or Gouda.
  • Add some herbs or spices for extra flavor: Some popular additions include garlic, onion, basil, oregano, and thyme. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Serve with a side of your favorite sauce: This casserole is delicious served with marinara sauce, pesto, or even just a drizzle of olive oil.

Conclusion:

This hearty zucchini casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's packed with zucchini, cheese, and eggs, and it's baked until golden brown. The casserole is a great way to use up leftover zucchini, and it's also a great dish to serve for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its simple ingredients and delicious flavor, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

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