Zucchini Stuffing Casserole: A Delicious Way to Use Up Extra Zucchini

In the realm of culinary delights, few ingredients are as versatile and abundant as zucchini, especially during the warmer months when gardens overflow with this green gem. This Zucchini Stuffing Casserole not only celebrates the tender, mild flavor of zucchini but also provides an opportunity to transform a simple vegetable into a satisfying, hearty dish that can serve as a side or even a main course, depending on how you choose to enhance it. With the addition of other vegetables like shredded cabbage or a sprinkle of cheese, you can tailor it to your taste preferences and nutritional needs.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Recipe Category

• Vegetable Casserole

Keywords

• Low Protein
• Less than 60 Minutes
• Oven-Cooked
• Easy

Ingredients

To create this delightful casserole, gather the following ingredients:

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of this comforting casserole, based on a standard serving size.

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your Zucchini Stuffing Casserole, which will be sure to impress friends and family alike:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a warm 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Zucchini: In a medium saucepan, bring a little salted water to a boil. Add the zucchini, cooking it gently until it becomes tender but still holds its shape, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain the zucchini and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the shredded carrots and diced onion. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the carrots are tender, enhancing their natural sweetness.

4. Combine the Mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of seasoned croutons, the can of cream soup (cream of mushroom works beautifully), and the sour cream. Mix thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined, resulting in a creamy mixture that will hold the casserole together.

5. Fold in the Zucchini: Gently fold the cooked zucchini into the mixture, taking care not to break it apart too much. You want to retain the lovely texture of the zucchini pieces as they will provide a wonderful bite in every spoonful.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into a greased 8” x 8” baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will be the base for your delicious casserole.

7. Top It Off: In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it with the remaining croutons. Sprinkle this buttery crouton mixture generously on top of the casserole. This will create a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen will be a clear sign that it’s almost time to enjoy this dish!

9. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This casserole is perfect as a side dish to grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light, comforting meal.

Tips for Customization

This Zucchini Stuffing Casserole is highly customizable; consider these variations:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or shredded cabbage to enhance both the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

• Incorporate Meat: For those looking for added protein, consider mixing in cooked, crumbled sausage, ground turkey, or diced chicken. This transforms the casserole into a hearty main dish.

• Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta, into the mixture before baking or on top during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, melty finish.

• Herbs and Spices: Elevate the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

This Zucchini Stuffing Casserole is not just a recipe; it is a celebration of summer’s bounty and a versatile dish that can adapt to suit your tastes and pantry. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or as a side at your next gathering, it is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.