Description
This Cozy Zucchini Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a comforting and delicious baked dish featuring tender zucchinis, sautéed onions and bell peppers, creamy mushroom soup, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this casserole combines cheesy goodness with a crunchy finish that delights every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Dairy & Canned Goods
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (approx. 10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
Others
- 2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole evenly.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes.
- Combine Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, sautéed onions and bell peppers, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Layer First Half: Grease a baking dish and layer half of the zucchini mixture in it. Evenly spread 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers on top followed by half of the shredded cheese.
- Layer Second Half: Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini mixture, the remaining cup of crushed Ritz crackers, and the rest of the shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the top is nicely golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set before serving. This enhances the texture and flavor for a cozy meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Make sure to slice zucchinis uniformly for even cooking.
- Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps the layers hold together better when serving.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated, then baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: zucchini casserole, cheesy zucchini bake, creamy vegetable casserole, easy baked zucchini recipe, Ritz cracker casserole
