Welcome to the world of cozy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying dishes with this Timeless Zucchini Casserole. It's a versatile recipe that celebrates the humble zucchini, perfect for a family dinner or a potluck dish. Let's jump right in and create something delicious!
The star of the show here is the zucchini, which provides a tender and mild base. We need it sliced into 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking. The onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor, finely chopped to blend seamlessly into the dish. Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese bring that irresistible cheesy goodness, each offering its unique flavor profile. The sour cream gives the casserole its creamy texture and slight tanginess. Breadcrumbs mixed with butter create that golden, crunchy top layer. A touch of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder rounds out the flavors perfectly. Lastly, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. It complements grilled chicken or steak nicely, making it a perfect side dish for a summer barbecue. For a vegetarian meal, consider serving it with a hearty lentil soup.
First up, let's preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready to go when we are. While the oven warms up, grab a large pot, fill it with water, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the sliced zucchinis and let them cook for about 5 minutes. This will make them nice and tender. Drain them well and set them aside for later.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, start combining the goodies. Mix the sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped onion together. Don't forget to add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This creamy, cheesy mixture will coat the zucchini beautifully.
Now, gently fold the drained zucchini into the mixture. You want to make sure every slice is well coated without breaking them apart. Once mixed, transfer everything into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
For the topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Once combined, sprinkle this evenly over the casserole. It will bake into a lovely golden crust.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden brown and everything is bubbling happily. After baking, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish.