Are you tired of boring vegetable dishes that make your family run from the dinner table? Prepare to be amazed by the "Lost and Found Zucchini Casserole" - a magical transformation of humble zucchinis into a cheesy, crispy masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds! This recipe turns ordinary vegetables into an extraordinary culinary experience that's so irresistible, even veggie-skeptics won't be able to resist its golden, bubbling charm.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Set aside.
- Peel and chop the onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and chopped onion. Season generously with salt and pepper, tossing to ensure even seasoning.
- Layer half of the seasoned zucchini and onion mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even bottom layer.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the first zucchini layer, covering it completely.
- Add the remaining zucchini and onion mixture as a second layer on top of the cheese.
- Top the second layer with the remaining shredded cheese, ensuring full coverage.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the top layer of cheese, creating a golden, crispy topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm zucchinis for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overly soft or bruised vegetables.
- Slice zucchinis uniformly to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- Pat zucchini slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, preventing a watery final dish.
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or dried herbs like thyme or basil to the seasoning.
- Use high-quality, freshly shredded cheese for the most melty and flavorful result.
- Don't skip the resting time after baking - it helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.
- For a crispy top, consider broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 194kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
