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Zucchini Parmesan Casserole Recipe

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3.9 from 71 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Zucchini Parmesan is a delicious, layered baked casserole featuring tender roasted zucchini slices, melted fresh mozzarella, savory marinara sauce, and a crispy Parmesan cheese topping. Perfect as a comforting vegetarian main or side dish, it offers a perfect balance of fresh flavors and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Cheese

  • 16 oz Fresh mozzarella cheese (torn or chopped into 1/3- to 1/2-inch pieces)
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables

  • 3 lb Zucchini (8-10 medium, 5-6 oz each)

Seasonings & Oils

  • 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3/4 tsp Sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tsp Dried basil

Other

  • 2 1/2 cups Marinara sauce
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Drain Mozzarella: Pat the torn or chopped mozzarella dry with paper towels. Line a large plate with more paper towels, arrange the mozzarella pieces in a single layer, top with additional paper towels, then place another plate on top to press gently. Let the mozzarella sit to absorb any extra moisture until needed.
  2. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line 2 extra large or 3-4 medium baking sheets with parchment paper for roasting the zucchini slices.
  3. Slice Zucchini: Use a mandoline to slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin sheets, about 1/4 inch thick. If the slices hold excess moisture inside, pat them dry with paper towels.
  4. Season Zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the lined baking sheets. Brush both sides with olive oil, then sprinkle sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried basil, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on both sides.
  5. Roast Zucchini: Roast the zucchini in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, swapping the racks halfway through, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is slightly golden.
  6. Layer Zucchini Parmesan: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Arrange about a quarter of the roasted zucchini slices in a single layer over the sauce. Top with 1/2 cup marinara and approximately 1/4 of the mozzarella pieces scattered to allow visibility of the zucchini. Repeat these layers three more times, ending with mozzarella on top for four total layers.
  7. Bake the Casserole: Bake the assembled zucchini parmesan for approximately 15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty. For a browned top, broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the mozzarella dry before using helps prevent excess moisture and soggy layers in the casserole.
  • Using a mandoline ensures uniform, thin zucchini slices that cook evenly.
  • Swapping baking racks halfway through roasting promotes even cooking.
  • Broiling at the end gives the cheese a delightful golden crust, but watch closely to avoid burning.
  • Fresh basil garnish adds a pop of color and fresh flavor, enhancing the dish’s presentation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/zucchini-parmesan-casserole-recipe/