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Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe with Easy Ritz Cracker Topping

crispy cheesy zucchini casserole - featured image

A comforting and crispy zucchini casserole topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust and a blend of melty cheeses. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, grated or thinly sliced
  • 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup whole or 2% milk
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter your 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Grate about 4 medium zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
  3. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, beaten eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until well incorporated.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
  6. Crush the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin or pulse briefly in a food processor. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly coated and slightly clumped.
  7. Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the zucchini mixture, pressing lightly to help it adhere.
  8. Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the filling is set and bubbly around the edges.
  9. Cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the casserole firm up and flavors meld.

Notes

Squeeze out zucchini moisture thoroughly to avoid soggy casserole. Use coarsely crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy topping. If topping browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Let casserole rest before slicing for best texture. Cream cheese should be softened for smooth mixing.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini casserole, cheesy casserole, Ritz cracker topping, easy casserole, comfort food, weeknight dinner, vegetarian casserole