Squash And Zucchini Casserole With Panko Bread Crumbs

Squash And Zucchini Casserole With Panko Bread Crumbs image source: www.saltysidedish.com

Squash and Zucchini Casserole with Panko Bread Crumbs

Are you looking for a delicious and savory side dish that will have your taste buds dancing with delight? Look no further than this mouthwatering squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs. This dish is the perfect combination of tender squash and zucchini, topped with a crispy and flavorful panko bread crumb topping. With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful mix of textures and a burst of amazing flavors.

Squash and Zucchini Casserole with Panko Bread Crumbs Overview

This squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the abundance of summer squash and zucchini. It features a rich and creamy base made with fresh squash and zucchini, combined with eggs, cheese, and a touch of seasonings. The dish is then topped with a generous amount of panko bread crumbs, which adds a crunchy and golden finish.

To make this delectable casserole, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

• Fresh squash and zucchini
• Eggs
• Cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan)
• Panko bread crumbs
• Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder)

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re a fan of squash and zucchini or looking for a new way to enjoy these vegetables, this casserole is sure to impress.

For individuals with dietary preferences or restrictions, this recipe can be easily adapted. If you follow a vegetarian diet, you can omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. For those who are gluten-free, you can replace the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize the recipe to your liking without compromising on taste.

Cooking Time & Servings

One of the great things about this squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs is that it comes together quickly and requires minimal hands-on time. The total cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking time. This makes it a convenient choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

This recipe yields 6 servings, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends or for enjoying leftovers throughout the week. If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, you can easily double the ingredients and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of fresh squash and zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan)
• 1/2 cup of panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced squash and zucchini, beaten eggs, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Protein: 11g

Cooking Time & Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Large bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Serving Suggestions

This squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a satisfying meal. You can also enjoy it as a main course by adding cooked quinoa or brown rice to make it more substantial. For a complete vegetarian meal, pair it with a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables.

For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle some homemade garlic aioli or tomato sauce over the casserole. You can also garnish it with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of freshness and vibrant color. Let your creativity shine by experimenting with different toppings or accompaniments to suit your taste preferences.

Variation Ideas

Looking to add a twist to this already delicious recipe? Here are some fantastic variation ideas:

• Add diced bell peppers or onions to the squash and zucchini mixture for extra flavor.
• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the panko bread crumbs for added richness.
• Incorporate cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory and indulgent twist.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Gruyère, to customize the flavor profile.

Substitutions

If you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several substitutions you can make in this recipe:

• Vegetarian or vegan: Omit the eggs and cheese and use a plant-based alternative, such as silken tofu or nutritional yeast.
• Gluten-free: Replace the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely.

Storage

To maintain freshness and flavor, store any leftover squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it at a later time, you can also freeze the casserole. Simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Tips

• Thinly slice the squash and zucchini for even cooking and a tender texture.
• Pat the sliced squash and zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery.
• For extra flavor, sauté the squash and zucchini briefly in olive oil before adding them to the casserole.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the cheese mixture for a burst of herbal goodness.

Notes

• This casserole is a great way to use up an abundance of summer squash and zucchini from your garden or local farmers’ market.
• You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• For a more decadent version, you can add some crumbled crispy bacon to the topping or mix it into the squash and zucchini mixture.
• This recipe is suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet, as it is relatively low in carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen squash and zucchini in this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen squash and zucchini if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great time-saving option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
3. Can I use regular bread crumbs instead of panko?
   Yes, regular bread crumbs can be used as a substitute for panko bread crumbs. However, keep in mind that panko bread crumbs provide a lighter and crispier texture.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze any leftovers for future enjoyment. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Category

This squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs recipe falls under the following categories:

• Side dish
• Vegetarian
• Summer recipes
• Casserole
• Comfort food

Personal Thought

In summary, this squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs is a delightful dish that is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender squash and zucchini, creamy cheese, and crispy panko bread crumbs creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to please both your taste buds and your guests.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

Don’t hesitate to give this squash and zucchini casserole with panko bread crumbs a try. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Get creative and experiment with different variations or add your personal touch. You’ll be amazed at how this simple recipe can be transformed into a gourmet delight.

Closing Statement

Thank you for taking the time to explore this delicious squash and zucchini casserole recipe. I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this dish as much as I do. Remember to share your experiences, feedback, and suggestions. Your insights are valuable and can inspire others to experience the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food.

“Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.”

– Harriet Van Horne