Cheesy Zucchini and Rice Bake
Savor the comforting flavors of our Cheesy Zucchini and Rice Bake, a delightful casserole packed with tender zucchini, creamy sour cream, and savory cheese. This dish combines wholesome ingredients into a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it an excellent side dish or a light main course. Perfect for gatherings, this casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to use up summer squash. Easy to prepare and guilt-free, it’s sure to be a family favorite!
8
Servings
255
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
8 cups (sliced (about 2 1/2 pounds))
Onion
1 cup (chopped)
Reduced-sodium fat-free chicken broth
1/2 cup
Cooked rice
2 cups
Fat-free sour cream
1 cup
Shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup ((approximately 4 ounces))
Grated fresh Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (divided)
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup
Salt
1 teaspoon
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Large eggs
2 (lightly beaten)
Cooking spray
(for coating baking dish)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a Dutch oven, combine the sliced zucchini, chopped onion, and reduced-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3
Once boiling, cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
4
Drain the mixture, then partially mash the zucchini and onion using a potato masher or fork.
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed zucchini mixture with the cooked rice, fat-free sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and the lightly beaten eggs. Mix gently until combined.
6
Spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with cooking spray and spoon the zucchini mixture into it, spreading evenly.
7
Top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
9
Once baked, switch the oven to broil mode and broil for 1 minute, or until the top is lightly browned and crispy. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
10
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
5.1g
Fat
39.8g
Carbs
6.9g
Protein
2.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of the Cheesy Zucchini and Rice Bake?
The dish features comforting flavors from tender zucchini, creamy sour cream, and savory cheeses like cheddar and parmesan.
How many calories are in one serving of this zucchini bake?
Each serving contains approximately 255 calories.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What type of rice is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of already cooked rice.
How much zucchini is required for this dish?
You will need 8 cups of sliced zucchini, which is approximately 2.5 pounds.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
The recipe contains chicken broth and eggs; however, it can be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
What kind of cheese is used in the bake?
The recipe uses shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese and grated fresh Parmesan cheese.
How long should the zucchini and onion simmer?
They should simmer in the chicken broth for about 20 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
Do I need to mash the zucchini?
Yes, after draining the mixture, you should partially mash the zucchini and onion using a potato masher or fork.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 13 x 9 inch baking dish is recommended for this casserole.
How much fat is in a single serving?
There is 5.1g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 39.8g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 6.9g of protein.
What is the final step to get a crispy top?
Switch the oven to broil mode and broil for 1 minute until the top is lightly browned and crispy.
Can I use fat-free sour cream?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1 cup of fat-free sour cream.
How much fiber is in each serving?
Each serving contains 2.5g of fiber.
What kind of breadcrumbs are used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.
Are eggs used in this recipe?
Yes, 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, are used to help bind the casserole ingredients.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of chopped onion.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
You should add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
What is the purpose of the chicken broth?
The chicken broth is used to boil and flavor the zucchini and onion before they are mashed.
Can I use fresh Parmesan cheese?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of grated fresh Parmesan cheese, divided.
Is the zucchini peeled before slicing?
The recipe does not specify peeling, so you can slice the zucchini with the skin on for extra nutrients.
How long is the total baking time?
The casserole bakes for 30 minutes, followed by 1 minute of broiling.
Should I grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should spray the baking dish with cooking spray before adding the mixture.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it works well as both a side dish and a light main course.
How much Parmesan is used for the topping?
The remaining 2 tablespoons of the 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese are used as a topping.
What should I do if the top starts to burn while broiling?
Keep a close eye on the casserole while broiling and remove it immediately once it is lightly browned.
Can I prepare this dish for a gathering?
Yes, it is described as a perfect dish for gatherings and a great way to use up summer squash.