Go Back
When making a delicious baked zucchini parmesan casserole, you'll need fresh, simple ingredients. Here's what to gather: - 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 tablespoon olive oil These ingredients blend well to create a tasty dish. The zucchini offers a nice texture, while the cheeses add creaminess. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano bring out bright flavors. I love using fresh ingredients for the best taste. You can find the full recipe for more details. Prepping the Zucchini Start by washing the zucchinis well. Slice them into thin rounds. Use a sharp knife for neat cuts. Thin slices help the zucchini cook evenly and blend well with other flavors. Set the slices aside on a clean kitchen towel to absorb extra moisture. Mixing the Cheese Filling In a big mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese. Then, mix in half of the mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. Next, toss in the chopped basil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth mixture. This cheesy blend is creamy and full of flavor. Arranging Layers in the Baking Dish Take a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and layer half of the zucchini slices at the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini. Add half of the halved cherry tomatoes on top. Repeat this process with the rest of the zucchini, ricotta mixture, and cherry tomatoes. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese sprinkled on top for a cheesy crust. Covering and Baking Instructions Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the layers are ready, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake it for 30 minutes. This helps steam the zucchini and melt the cheese. Finishing Touches before Serving After 30 minutes, take off the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. You want the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This waiting time helps the layers set. Enjoy your delicious baked zucchini Parmesan casserole! For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions. Ensuring Even Cooking To get a great bake, slice the zucchini thin. Thin slices cook faster and evenly. Layer the zucchini well in the dish. This helps heat move through the dish. Make sure not to pack it too tightly. This way, the heat can circulate and cook everything. Tips for Creaminess and Flavor Use fresh ricotta for a rich taste. Mixing in fresh basil adds a nice touch. Don't skip the olive oil; it keeps the dish moist. When baking, cover the dish for the first part. This traps steam, making the casserole creamy. Remove the cover later to brown the cheese. Ideal Pairings for the Dish This casserole pairs well with a simple salad. A light green salad with vinaigrette works great. You can also serve it with crusty bread. This adds a nice crunch and texture. Enhancing Presentation For a beautiful look, top the casserole with fresh basil leaves. A drizzle of balsamic glaze makes it pop. Use a colorful plate to let the dish shine. This adds to the overall dining experience. For more tips, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can change the cheeses in the casserole. Try using goat cheese or feta. Both add a nice twist. If you want a creamier texture, use cream cheese. For a lighter option, switch to low-fat milk or cheese. This keeps the dish tasty but cuts some fat. If you're vegan, try replacing all dairy with plant-based options. Use almond milk or cashew cheese. These options work well and still taste great. Want to boost the protein? Add cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans. This makes the casserole hearty and filling. You can also mix in other vegetables. Try bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These add color and flavor. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly. Explore these variations to make the baked zucchini parmesan casserole your own. You might find a new favorite! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. After enjoying your delicious baked zucchini parmesan casserole, you may have some leftovers. Here’s how to keep them fresh: - Refrigeration Guidelines: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3–5 days. Make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out. - Freezing the Casserole: If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option. Cut the casserole into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It should last up to 2–3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, here are the best ways to reheat them: - Best Methods for Reheating: The oven is the best choice. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warm. If you want to crisp the top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but the oven keeps the texture better. - Safety Tips: Always check that the casserole is heated to at least 165°F (74°C) before eating. If you see any signs of spoilage, it’s best to toss it out. Remember, safety first! Can I use frozen zucchini? Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. However, it may release more water. This can make the casserole a bit watery. To avoid this, thaw the zucchini first. Drain any extra water before using it in the recipe. How can I modify cooking time for smaller servings? If you want to make a smaller casserole, adjust the cooking time. Use a smaller dish and check it after 20 minutes. The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Just assemble it and cover it. Store it in the fridge for up to one day. Bake it right before serving for the best results. What is the best way to store baked casseroles? Store baked casseroles in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. You learned how to make a tasty zucchini and cheese casserole. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. You can try different flavors or swap ingredients to fit your needs. Remember to store leftovers properly for the best taste. I hope you feel inspired to cook this dish and enjoy it with family or friends. Happy cooking!

- Delicious Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole

Indulge in the flavors of summer with this delicious baked zucchini parmesan casserole! Packed with layers of fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy cheese blend, this easy recipe is perfect for dinner or a comforting side dish. The bubbling mozzarella on top makes it irresistible. Click through to explore the full recipe and see how simple it is to create this delightful dish that will impress family and friends!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, the Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

      In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices evenly over the bottom.

        Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini layer.

          Add half of the cherry tomatoes over the ricotta layer.

            Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices, followed by the rest of the ricotta mixture and then the remaining cherry tomatoes.

              Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole.

                Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor.

                  Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

                    Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                      Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole garnished with fresh basil leaves on top, and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!