The Coziest Zucchini & Tomato Casserole
Here’s a warm, comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish for you — a Cozy Zucchini & Tomato Casserole. It’s rustic, cheesy, and baked until bubbly, perfect for a family meal or side dish.
⏱ Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 40 minutes
Total: ~1 hour
Ingredients
3 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella (or Gruyère for a richer flavor)
2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven
Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the veggies
Slice zucchini and tomatoes evenly.
Sprinkle lightly with salt, set aside for 10 minutes, then pat dry (removes excess moisture).
3. Sauté aromatics
In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil.
Cook onion until soft and golden, then add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Spread this mixture on the bottom of your baking dish.
4. Assemble casserole
Arrange zucchini and tomato slices alternately in rows or in a spiral (like ratatouille).
Drizzle with remaining olive oil, sprinkle oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cheese topping
Sprinkle Parmesan over the arranged veggies.
Cover with mozzarella (or Gruyere) for that bubbly golden top.
6. Bake
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is golden and casserole is bubbling.
7. Garnish & serve
Let rest 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes & Tips
Add breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and herbs on top for a crispy crust.
For extra coziness, mix a little cream or ricotta into the onions before layering.
Great served with crusty bread or alongside roasted chicken or fish.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes — assemble up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Freezing is possible, but zucchini may release extra water when thawed. Best eaten fresh.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Swap the cheese for vegan mozzarella or a cashew cream drizzle.
Nutritional information
Calories: 210
Protein: 10 g
Carbs: 12 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 3 g