Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that celebrates garden-fresh zucchini, look no further than this Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole. This recipe delivers the ultimate combination of tender, savory zucchini, layers of melty cheese, a touch of aromatic garlic and onion, and a perfectly crispy golden topping. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this flavorful casserole is the kind of weeknight wonder you’ll want to make on repeat—it practically guarantees empty plates and plenty of compliments!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole is its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add just the right pop of flavor, irresistible texture, or gorgeous color—don’t skip a thing! Here’s what you need, plus why each element matters to the magic of the dish:

• Zucchini: Fresh and shredded, zucchini soaks up all the flavors while becoming beautifully tender in the casserole.
• Salt: A touch of salt helps draw out extra moisture from the zucchini, preventing a soggy dish and amplifying taste.
• Onion: Adds mellow sweetness and a gentle bite, rounding out the casserole’s savory base.
• Garlic: Infuses aromatic depth that makes every forkful POP—use fresh for the best result.
• Eggs: Hold everything together for a cohesive, sliceable, and satisfying bake.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides nutty richness and that signature salty kick; it’s sprinkled within and on top.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy perfection for extra creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a hint of sharpness and gorgeous color—cheese lovers, rejoice!
• Panko Crumbs: Create a super-light, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft middle.
• Melted Salted Butter: Toasts the breadcrumbs to golden, buttery goodness for irresistible flavor.

How to Make Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled. It’s equally important to generously grease a 1 ½-quart baking dish—this keeps everything from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. Set your dish aside and move on to prepping your star ingredient.

Step 2: Remove Excess Water from Zucchini

This step is crucial for avoiding a watery casserole! Place your shredded zucchini in a colander and toss it with the salt provided in the ingredient list. Let it rest for about 10 minutes; you’ll see water start to bead up. Then, using a dish towel, wrap and squeeze the zucchini—multiple times if needed—until you’ve removed as much liquid as possible. The drier your zucchini, the more luscious and set your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole will turn out.

Step 3: Mix Casserole Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, add the dried zucchini, onion, garlic, beaten eggs, ½ cup parmesan cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar. Mix everything together until uniformly combined—don’t be shy about using your hands! Spread this savory mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, gently pressing it down to create a smooth, even layer.

Step 4: Bake the Zucchini Casserole

Now it’s time to bake! Slide the dish into your preheated oven, uncovered, for 20 minutes. This initial bake helps set the casserole so it holds together well, and starts to meld all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

While the casserole bakes, make your topping—because every good casserole deserves a golden, crunchy finish. In a small bowl, pour the melted salted butter over the panko crumbs and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of parmesan. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the cheese is distributed throughout. It should smell heavenly already!

Step 6: Add Topping and Finish Baking

After the first bake, pull your casserole out of the oven carefully. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top, making sure you cover every edge for that perfect crispness in every bite. Return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until the topping is beautifully golden and crunchy. If you love a super-crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

When the casserole is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes to set. The heavenly aroma will make it tough to wait! Slice, serve, and watch everyone reach for seconds. This Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole is at its very best enjoyed warm from the oven, with the cheeses still gooey and the top shatteringly crisp.

How to Serve Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Garnishes

For a burst of color and extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs—like basil, parsley, or chives—over each serving right before bringing it to the table. A light shower of extra grated parmesan at the end adds lovely saltiness and makes the casserole feel extra special. If you like a spicy kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper never hurts!

Side Dishes

This dish can totally hold its own as a vegetarian main course, but it also pairs beautifully with simple side salads dressed in vinaigrette, roasted chicken, or grilled fish. Try serving it with a bright tomato salad, garlic bread, or a bowl of soup for a cozy, complete meal. The flavors of Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole are so versatile, it slots right into almost any meal plan.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling playful? Bake the casserole in individual ramekins for cute, single-serve portions. Or, slice it into squares and tuck them inside sliders or wraps for a fun, portable lunch. You could even use leftovers to top a bed of greens for a hearty, super-flavorful salad. The possibilities are endless—it’s all about making this Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole fit your style and needs!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavor deepens as it sits, making leftovers a savory lunchtime treat!

Freezing

To freeze, let the baked casserole cool completely, then wrap individual servings or the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding the breadcrumb topping, and add it during reheating for optimal crispiness—but it’s still tasty either way!

Reheating

For crisp results, reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven until hot throughout and the topping is re-crisped (about 15–20 minutes if reheating from chilled). Individual pieces can also be microwaved for convenience, but the crumb topping will soften a bit. For frozen casserole, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works beautifully in this recipe and offers a similar mild flavor and texture, so you can use it in exactly the same way as zucchini for your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole.

How do I keep my casserole from getting soggy?

The secret is all in squeezing out as much water as possible from the zucchini. Salting, resting, and thoroughly wringing out the shreds ensures your casserole is perfectly set and never watery.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Yes! Add cooked crumbled sausage, ground turkey, or even chopped cooked chicken to the mixture before baking. This gives a protein boost and turns your Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole into an even heartier main dish.

What’s the best way to shred zucchini?

A standard box grater works great for shredding zucchini, but you can also use the shredding attachment on your food processor for a quick and easy shortcut, especially if you’re doubling the recipe!

Is this casserole gluten-free?

As written, the panko crumbs contain gluten, but you can easily make the dish gluten-free by swapping in gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a very adaptable family favorite.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve made this Quick Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole, you’ll see why it earns a spot in the weekly dinner rotation. It’s easy, comforting, and bursting with flavor—perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Grab those fresh zucchinis, and let’s bring a little more deliciousness to your table!

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