Zucchini, Squash & Corn Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a wonderful combination of simple, fresh ingredients and rich flavors. The mix of zucchini, squash, and corn creates a delightful balance of textures, while the creamy base gives it that satisfying comfort-food quality. It’s perfect for those who enjoy vegetable-forward dishes but still crave that hearty, cheesy casserole vibe. Additionally, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced

• 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini, squash, and corn kernels.

3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

4. Transfer the vegetable mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

5. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and melted butter together. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Swap: You can use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses, for a different flavor.

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken, turkey, or even ground beef to the casserole.

• Herb Infusion: Add extra herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for an additional layer of flavor.

• Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and mayo substitutes to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini or squash for this casserole?

While fresh zucchini and squash yield the best results, you can use frozen vegetables. Be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the recipe?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the mixture before baking to give it a spicy kick.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Feel free to get creative! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach to the casserole for additional flavor and texture.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative or use crushed gluten-free crackers.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?

Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the zucchini and squash before adding them to the casserole. You can also pat them dry with a paper towel to absorb extra liquid.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just assemble it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking process.

Can I use different types of corn in this recipe?

Fresh, frozen, or even canned corn can be used. Just make sure to drain canned corn before adding it to the casserole.

How do I make the topping crunchier?

For a crunchier topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, or even add some crushed crackers to the mix for extra texture.

Conclusion

This Zucchini, Squash & Corn Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that makes the most of fresh, seasonal vegetables. With its creamy texture and flavorful, cheesy topping, it’s a great option for any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs.