Description
This Quick and Healthy Zucchini and Pepper Casserole is a delicious, veggie-packed dish that’s both light and satisfying. Loaded with fresh zucchini, sweet peppers, carrots, and onions, this casserole is held together by a creamy, herbed sauce and topped with golden, melted cheese. It’s the perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty vegetarian meal, or a nutritious side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2.2 lbs (35 oz) zucchini – Provides a tender, slightly sweet base.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil – Adds richness and helps caramelize the veggies.
- 2 green peppers – Brings a mild, crisp sweetness.
- 2 red peppers – Enhances color and adds natural sweetness.
- 1 carrot – Adds a slight earthiness and vibrant color.
- 1 onion – Provides depth of flavor and mild sweetness.
- 1 ¼ cups milk – Creates a creamy, rich texture.
- 1 ⅛ cups all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
- 3 eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons dill – Adds a fresh, herby flavor.
- 1 sachet baking powder – Gives the casserole a light lift.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances flavors.
- 3.5 oz grated cheese – Creates a creamy, golden crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash, trim, and slice the zucchini, peppers, carrot, and onion into thin rounds or strips.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the sliced vegetables, and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together milk, all-purpose flour, olive oil, eggs, dill, baking powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: Arrange the sautéed vegetables evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over them, ensuring full coverage.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with a side of salad, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, bake uncovered and use a mix of parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- To prevent a watery casserole, lightly salt the zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes before cooking.
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu.
- Make it gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean