Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Name: Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making my Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole! Each bite is packed with rich flavors and creamy textures that bring comfort to my family dinner table. Using fresh, garden-fresh zucchini, I love how it transforms into a deliciously cheesy masterpiece with every bite. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also allows me to sneak in some veggies for the little ones. It’s an easy, delightful dish that celebrates simplicity while making my Sunday meals memorable.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:52:10.629Z

When I first tried making a zucchini casserole, I was unsure how the flavors would blend together. However, I discovered that layering the zucchini with rich cheeses and fresh herbs made all the difference. As it baked, the combination of melted cheese and tender veggies created an inviting aroma that filled my kitchen.

This casserole has become a staple in my home. I learned that adding a bit of nutmeg and black pepper elevates the dish, making it comforting yet sophisticated. Trust me, this dish will impress your guests and family alike!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and cheesy goodness that will satisfy any comfort food craving
A wonderful way to use up fresh zucchini from your garden
Perfect balance of flavors with a hint of herbs

      

Techniques for Perfect Zucchini

When preparing the zucchinis for this casserole, it's essential to slice them thinly and evenly—aim for about 1/4 inch in thickness. This ensures that they cook uniformly, becoming tender while retaining just enough bite. Overly thick slices can lead to uneven cooking, often resulting in a watery casserole. If you have time, consider salting the slices lightly and letting them drain for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which can help achieve that optimal texture.

Additionally, experimenting with different slicing tools can provide varied textures. A mandoline can create uniform slices quickly, while a knife allows for a rustic look. Remember that the visual appeal of your dish enhances its appeal for everyone at the table. The more you focus on consistent sizes, the more evenly everything bakes and melds together.

Cheese Choices and Substitutions

The blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses in this casserole is what makes it incredibly creamy and flavorful. Mozzarella adds stretch and melt, whereas Parmesan contributes a punch of umami. If you find Parmesan scarce, Pecorino Romano can be a delightful substitute, offering even sharper notes. For a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta or replacing it with cottage cheese, though the texture will vary slightly.

If you're looking for lactose-free alternatives, many brands offer lactose-free versions of mozzarella and ricotta that work beautifully in this dish. This way, you can accommodate dietary needs without compromising on that cheesy goodness that pulls this casserole together.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Serving this casserole straight from the oven allows the melted cheese to shine, paired with a light green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can garnish with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. The golden, bubbly top is a visual cue that the dish is perfectly baked and ready to dive into for a satisfying meal.

If you have leftovers, they can be securely covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as described.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before starting this delightful casserole.

Main Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to follow the steps closely for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect casserole.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.

Prepare Zucchini

Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds and set aside for layering.

Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese. Mix in the eggs, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and basil until smooth.

Layer the Ingredients

In the prepared dish, layer half of the zucchini slices, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and cheese.

Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or onion to the cheese mixture. You can also substitute zucchini with other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a different twist.

Making Ahead for Busy Days

This Sunday Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is ideal for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.

For those planning ahead, consider chopping the zucchinis and measuring out the cheese and spices the night before. Store them separately in the fridge to streamline your cooking process on casserole night. It’s an effortless way to ensure you enjoy this comforting dish even on your busiest days.

Variations to Try

While this recipe focuses on zucchini, feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Adding roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even spinach can enhance the flavor profile while also sneaking in more nutrients. Layering in these veggies works particularly well with the cheese, maintaining the casserole’s creamy integrity.

If you're a fan of different flavor profiles, try incorporating Italian spices like oregano or thyme into the cheese mixture. These herbs complement zucchini beautifully and elevate the dish above traditional cheesy casseroles. Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand or your family’s taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ What can I use instead of zucchini?

You can substitute zucchini with yellow squash, eggplant, or even thinly sliced potatoes.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking, and when you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and bake.

→ How do I know when the casserole is done?

It’s done when it’s bubbly, slightly golden on top, and the zucchini is tender.