Indulge in the delightful combination of savory flavors with this Zucchini Casserole, where crisp bacon, earthy mushrooms, and tender zucchini come together in a cheesy embrace. This casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re looking to serve a comforting side or a satisfying main course. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of rich, creamy textures and savory tastes, making this dish a must-have in your recipe collection.

Photo byElizabeth

In this irresistible casserole, grated zucchini is the star, providing a moist and tender base that’s perfectly complemented by the richness of Monterey Jack cheese and the saltiness of crispy bacon. Chopped mushrooms and sautéed onions add depth, while a touch of garlic salt enhances the savory profile. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or potlucks.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve Zucchini Casserole as a comforting side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled meats, or fish.

- Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

- Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

- This casserole also makes a great vegetarian main course—simply omit the bacon for a delicious meat-free option.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• • - Calories: 320
  • - Total Fat: 24g
  • - Saturated Fat: 12g
  • - Cholesterol: 70mg
  • - Sodium: 680mg
  • - Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • - Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • - Sugars: 4g
  • - Protein: 10g

Storage Information:

- Store any leftover Zucchini Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

- This casserole can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Photo byMelanie AndersenonUnsplash

Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 6 slices of bacon, cut up
• - 8 oz white button mushrooms, chopped
• - 1/2 cup diced yellow onions
• - Dash of garlic salt
• - 3 medium zucchini, grated
• - 1 1/2 cups cracker crumbs (Saltines)
• - 1 egg, beaten
• - 2/3 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• - 1/2 cup melted butter
• - 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.

   - In a large skillet, cook the cut-up bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.

   - In the same skillet, sauté the chopped mushrooms and diced onions until they are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add a dash of garlic salt for flavor.

   - Grate the zucchini using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to avoid a watery casserole.

2. Combine the Ingredients:

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sautéed mushrooms and onions, cooked bacon, cracker crumbs, beaten egg, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, melted butter, pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

   - Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

4. Bake:

   - Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

5. Serve:

   - Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, savory blend of flavors with a creamy, satisfying texture.

This Zucchini Casserole is a comforting dish where the flavors of bacon, cheese, and fresh zucchini come together in a rich, savory creation. Perfect for any meal, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.