Description
Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer, this shredded zucchini and Fontina casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s a versatile dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base:
- Zucchini or summer squash: 2 1/2 pounds (shredded)
- Kosher salt: 2 1/2 teaspoons (divided)
- Large eggs: 6
- Fontina cheese: 8 ounces (shredded)
- Whole-milk ricotta cheese: 1 cup
- Fresh basil leaves: 1/3 cup (chopped)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
For the Topping:
- Fresh breadcrumbs: 1 1/2 cups
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon zest: From 1 lemon (finely grated)
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Shred the zucchini using a food processor or box grater.
- Place shredded zucchini in a colander over a bowl, sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and toss to combine. Let it sit for 20 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Make the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs.
- Stir in shredded Fontina cheese, ricotta, basil, garlic, and 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt until combined.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Toss until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Squeeze as much liquid as possible from the shredded zucchini.
- Add the zucchini to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Drain Thoroughly: Removing moisture from the zucchini is key to avoiding a watery casserole. Don’t skip this step!
- Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh basil and high-quality Fontina cheese for a richer, more aromatic flavor.
- Breadcrumb Tip: Use homemade breadcrumbs for the topping to maximize crunch and freshness.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, store it covered in the fridge, and bake fresh the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish or Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American