Description
This Zucchini & Squash Casserole is a delicious and healthy baked side dish featuring tender slices of summer squash layered and topped with a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Lightly seasoned and finished with fresh parsley, this casserole offers a satisfying golden-brown crust that pairs perfectly with any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 lbs. summer squash (zucchini and yellow squash, cut into ¼-inch slices)
Seasonings and Toppings
- 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt (divided)
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Slice Squash: Cut the yellow squash and zucchini into thin, ¼-inch slices for even cooking.
- Salt and Drain: Sprinkle ½ teaspoon salt over the sliced squash. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently dab with a paper towel to remove it.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9-inch square baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Squash: Overlap the zucchini and squash slices in rows within the baking dish, forming approximately four rows for uniform layers.
- Add Olive Oil and Season: Drizzle olive oil evenly over the arranged squash, then sprinkle with the remaining salt and pepper to season well.
- Mix and Sprinkle Topping: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Toss together and evenly sprinkle this mixture over the squash.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the squash to soften and flavors to meld.
- Broil for Crispiness: Remove the foil, increase the oven heat to the broil setting, and broil the casserole for 5-7 minutes or until the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crisp.
- Serve and Garnish: Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the casserole and serve immediately for a warm, flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Letting the squash sit with salt helps remove excess water, preventing a watery casserole.
- Using gluten-free Panko ensures this recipe is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Broiling at the end creates a deliciously crispy topping – watch closely to avoid burning.
- This casserole makes a great side dish for grilled meats or vegetarian meals.
