Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole Recipe
A comforting and easy-to-make Baked Zucchini Parmesan Casserole that layers tender zucchini slices with rich marinara sauce and savory Parmesan cheese, baked to bubbly perfection for a delicious vegetarian main or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and thinly slice the zucchinis evenly to ensure even cooking and layering.
- Layer the ingredients: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange a layer of zucchini slices over the sauce, then sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layering process—marinara, zucchini, Parmesan—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the layers set and flavors meld together perfectly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle dried Italian herbs or fresh basil between the layers.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Use homemade or high-quality marinara sauce for best results.
- Cover with foil during the first half of baking to prevent excessive browning, remove foil to crisp up the top.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Keywords: baked zucchini casserole, zucchini parmesan, vegetarian casserole, Italian vegetable bake, marinara zucchini bake
