Cheesy Zucchini-Tomato Casserole Recipe π§π
| Total Time | Prep Time | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| PT50M | PT25M | PT25M |
Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Cheesy Zucchini-Tomato Casserole, a dish that combines the freshness of zucchini and tomatoes with the comforting richness of cheddar and Velveeta cheeses. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a flavorful, satisfying vegetable-centered meal that’s easy to make and share with loved ones.
Recipe Category:
Cheese
Keywords:
Vegetable, < 60 Mins, Oven
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 231.2
- Fat Content: 16.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 9.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 110.6mg
- Sodium Content: 268.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 13.4g
- Fiber Content: 2.9g
- Sugar Content: 5g
- Protein Content: 10.3g
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 plum tomatoes, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
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Prepare Baking Dish: Butter a 2-quart baking dish, ensuring a smooth surface for your casserole to bake evenly.
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SautΓ© Zucchini and Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, melt about 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- SautΓ© the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is crisp-tender. Once done, drain excess liquid from the skillet.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped plum tomatoes, cubed Velveeta cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, and dried parsley flakes.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined, forming a cheesy and flavorful mixture.
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Incorporate Zucchini Mixture:
- Stir the zucchini and onion mixture into the bowl of cheesy ingredients. Mix thoroughly, ensuring all the zucchini is coated in the cheese mixture.
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Season to Taste:
- Season the casserole mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.
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Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the prepared mixture into the buttered baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or spoon.
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Final Touches:
- Dot the top of the casserole with 1-2 tablespoons of butter for an extra layer of richness and flavor.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted to perfection.
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Rest and Serve:
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for about 10 minutes to set.
- This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- After resting, slice into generous portions and serve this Cheesy Zucchini-Tomato Casserole while it’s still warm and inviting.
- It makes a wonderful main dish for a vegetarian dinner, or serve it as a delightful side to complement your favorite protein.
Notes:
- This casserole can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to add in extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheeses or substitute with your favorite dairy-free alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.
Enjoy this Cheesy Zucchini-Tomato Casserole as a comforting and flavorful addition to your mealtime repertoire! π§π β¨
