Name: Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 medium-sized zucchinis, cut into slices (approx. 6 1/2 cups); 3 tablespoons olive oil, separated; 1 medium onion, cut into slices; 1 garlic clove, finely chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (28 ounces) with juice; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh oregano, chopped or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups stuffing mix; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, part-skim, shredded

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, vibrant, and veggie-packed dish that brings all the charm of Tuscan kitchens straight to your table, this Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Picture layers of juicy zucchini, aromatic tomato sauce, herbaceous goodness, a golden crust of cheese, and just the right touch of savory stuffing—all coming together in a satisfying bake. Whether you’re serving this for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, you’ll love how it celebrates fresh flavors while being wonderfully simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe lies in its shortlist of kitchen staples. Each ingredient pulls its weight—adding depth, zest, or creaminess—and the result is a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color in every bite.

Zucchini: Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the perfect tender bite and fresh green color.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps bring out the natural sweetness of your vegetables.
Onion: Sautéed until sweet and soft, it imparts a wonderful base flavor.
Garlic: Just one clove brings that irresistible Italian aroma we all love.
Diced Tomatoes (28 oz can): Provides sauciness and bright acidity—don’t drain, keep the juice!
Fresh Basil (or dried): Lends fragrant, green notes that scream summer.
Oregano: Fresh or dried, this herb gives true Mediterranean essence.
Garlic Salt: Seasons every layer without overpowering.
Black Pepper: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
Stuffing Mix: Makes the topping hearty and helps soak up those tomato juices.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty bite and helps crisp the top.
Part-skim Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully over the casserole, turning golden and bubbly.

How to Make Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Zucchini

Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your zucchini slices and cook gently for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re just tender—they should keep their color and structure for the best texture. Once cooked, drain any excess oil and set the zucchini aside; this prevents the casserole from becoming too watery and keeps each slice distinct and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

In that same skillet, add your remaining olive oil and toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté them for about a minute until they turn aromatic—this is where your kitchen will start to smell like a trattoria! Next, add the diced tomatoes (with all the juice), basil, oregano, garlic salt, and black pepper. Let this mixture simmer, uncovered, for a good 10 minutes to allow all the herbs and veggies to meld into a rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Combine Zucchini with the Sauce

Once your tomato mixture has simmered, remove it from the heat and carefully stir the cooked zucchini back in. Make sure every slice is coated with sauce. This ensures the zucchini soaks up all those fragrant, herby juices, making every bite pop with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grab a greased 13 by 9-inch baking dish and spoon in your zucchini-tomato mixture, smoothing it out to an even layer. Sprinkle the stuffing mix right over the surface, distributing it evenly so it can form a beautiful crust as it bakes. Finally, shower the top with plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory kick.

Step 5: Bake and Add Mozzarella

Cover your dish with foil and pop it into a preheated 350°F oven. Let it bake for 20 minutes—this gives the stuffing time to absorb the juicy flavors underneath. Then, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake, uncovered, for about 10 minutes until the cheese is gloriously golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve the Dish

When the Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe emerges from the oven, let it set for a few minutes so the layers settle and flavors intensify (if you can resist digging in!). Serve up generous slices and watch everyone swoon over the cheesy, aromatic comfort.

How to Serve Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh basil, a dash of extra black pepper, or even a grating of Parmesan on top right before serving. These finishing touches add color and bring an extra layer of fresh aroma that takes the Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe from home-cooked to restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair your casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted potatoes. A warm crusty bread is always welcome for scooping up that luscious tomato sauce, making it a meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a whimsical twist, portion the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party. Or, spoon it onto a bed of creamy polenta for a rustic Italian-style dinner that feels like a big warm hug. Hosting brunch? Serve alongside soft poached eggs for a Mediterranean morning treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe keep beautifully. Simply cover the dish tightly and refrigerate—it will stay fresh for up to three days without losing flavor or texture. To avoid a soggy topping, wait to add any fresh garnishes until just before reheating and serving.

Freezing

If you want to put some away for a later meal, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap the entire baking dish (or portions) in a layer of plastic wrap followed by foil, then stash it in the freezer for up to two months. Just remember to label and date it for easy meal planning!

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm covered in a 350°F oven until hot throughout—about 20 minutes should do the trick for individual servings. Let it bake uncovered for the last few minutes to crisp up the cheesy top again. Microwaving works in a pinch, though the topping won’t be as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works marvelously in this casserole, either as a substitute or mixed with the zucchini for extra color and flavor variety. Just follow the same slicing and cooking instructions.

What stuffing mix should I use?

Any seasoned, dry stuffing mix from the grocery store will work, whether it’s classic herb, garlic, or plain. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even use homemade croutons or stale bread cubes tossed with Italian herbs.

Can I make Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the stuffing mix for your favorite gluten-free bread crumbs or gluten-free stuffing mix, and double-check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is there a way to make this casserole vegan?

For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives for both Parmesan and mozzarella. Make sure your stuffing mix doesn’t contain any animal products, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

Can I add protein, like chicken or sausage?

Definitely. For a heartier version, fold in cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or crumbled Italian sausage right after you combine the zucchini and sauce. It’s a simple tweak that makes the Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe an even more satisfying main course.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something fresh, simple, and deeply comforting, you really can’t go wrong with this Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe. Whether you make it from the garden or store-bought zucchinis, it’s a dish sure to win hearts and become a favorite at your table—give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Italy at home!

Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 14 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Fresh Italian Zucchini Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender zucchinis with a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with a cheesy crust. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the bounty of summer produce!

Instructions

Cook the Zucchini – Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet, cook zucchini slices until tender, drain excess oil, and set aside.
Prepare the Tomato Mixture – Sauté onion and garlic in oil, add tomatoes, basil, oregano, garlic salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Combine Zucchini with the Sauce – Stir in cooked zucchini slices with the tomato mixture.
Assemble the Casserole – Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with stuffing mix and Parmesan cheese.
Bake and Add Mozzarella – Bake covered, then add mozzarella and bake uncovered until melted and bubbly.
Serve the Dish – Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be customized with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian