Irresistible Crispy Zucchini and Corn Casserole Recipe: A Delicious Side Dish 2024

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Crispy Zucchini and Corn Casserole: A Delicious, Easy-to-Make Side Dish

Recipe by Lucy MealworthCourse: Desserts

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

Total time

45

minutes

Ingredients

• Zucchini: 4 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced into rounds

• Corn: 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels

• Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped

• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

• Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded

• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated

• Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (Panko works best for extra crunch)

• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted

• Eggs: 2 large eggs

• Milk: 1 cup (whole milk or a milk substitute)

• Salt and pepper: to taste

• Paprika: 1 teaspoon for added flavor

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish.
• Prep the zucchini and corn: If you’re using fresh zucchini, slice it into ¼-inch rounds. For the corn, if fresh, remove the kernels from the cob or use frozen corn (thawed).
• Cook the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes). Toss in the zucchini slices and corn, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the zucchini softens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Mix the eggs and milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese.
• Assemble the casserole: In your greased baking dish, layer the zucchini and corn mixture. Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the vegetables. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
• Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Spread this mixture evenly over the casserole.
• Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

5. Tips for the Best Casserole Texture

The secret to a great casserole lies in balancing texture and flavor. Here are a few tips to ensure that your Crispy Zucchini and Corn Casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Dry the zucchini: Zucchini is a high-moisture vegetable, which can sometimes make the casserole soggy. To avoid this, lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking.
• Don’t skip the buttered breadcrumbs: The crispy topping adds an essential contrast to the tender vegetables. You can also use crushed crackers or cornflakes if you’re out of breadcrumbs.
• Cheese options: Feel free to swap out cheddar and Parmesan for mozzarella or Gruyère if you prefer a different cheese flavor.

6. Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about casseroles is that they are highly adaptable. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken or ground turkey to the casserole.
• Go dairy-free: Use plant-based cheese and non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a spicy kick.

7. Health Benefits of Zucchini and Corn

Both zucchini and corn are packed with nutrients, making this casserole not only delicious but also healthy. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants. Corn, on the other hand, is an excellent source of dietary fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. Together, they create a nutrient-dense dish that supports digestion, immune function, and overall health.

8. How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), storing and reheating this casserole is a breeze. Here’s how to do it:

• Storage: Let the casserole cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Reheat the casserole for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method will help maintain the crispy topping.

9. Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This Crispy Zucchini and Corn Casserole is an excellent side dish, but it can also shine as part of a complete meal. Consider pairing it with:

• Grilled Chicken: The lightness of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the rich casserole.
• Roast Beef: A hearty, savory roast is complemented by the fresh and crispy textures of the dish.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian meal, add tofu or tempeh to make it more filling and protein-rich.

10. Conclusion

The Crispy Zucchini and Corn Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of summer and autumn produce. With its balance of creamy, tender vegetables and a crunchy, golden topping, this casserole is sure to impress both family and friends. Plus, its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Try this casserole at your next gathering, and watch it quickly become a favorite!

This dish is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something bold, satisfying, and utterly delicious. So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting side dish, look no further than this crispy zucchini and corn casserole!