This Easy Baked Zucchini Spinach Feta Casserole is a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With fresh zucchini, spinach, and tangy feta, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
It’s like a warm, cheesy hug for your taste buds! I love serving this dish with some crusty bread—it makes every bite even better. You’ll want to go back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are perfect for this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too. Both add moisture and texture!
Spinach: Use fresh spinach for better flavor, but frozen spinach works too! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a nice tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try almond feta or tofu feta as alternatives. They’ll provide a similar texture!
Eggs: These help bind the casserole. If you’re vegan or allergic, you could use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead.
Breadcrumbs: Panko is my favorite for that extra crunch! If you’re gluten-free, seek out gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts for a great alternative.
How Do I Cook the Vegetables Properly?
Cooking the zucchini and spinach perfectly ensures tender, flavorful bites. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet to medium heat and add olive oil. This helps the veggies cook evenly.
- Sauté the onions until they are soft; this adds a sweet base. Then add garlic for flavor.
- When adding zucchini, cook until it softens slightly—about 5-7 minutes. This keeps it from being watery in the casserole.
- Finally, add spinach and just wilt it. That’s all it needs; overcooking will make it mushy.
Taking your time here sets a tasty foundation for your casserole!
Easy Baked Zucchini Spinach Feta Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 3 medium zucchinis, diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves (roughly chopped)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheeses:
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for crunch)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for richness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30-35 minutes for baking. So, in just about 45-50 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish to share with friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a medium baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma!
3. Cooking the Zucchini:
Next, add the diced zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the zucchini has started to soften. Remember to season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to bring out the flavors!
4. Adding the Spinach:
Now, fold in those lovely fresh spinach leaves and let them cook for just about 2-3 minutes until they wilt down nicely. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
5. Mixing the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 large eggs and 1/2 cup of milk until well combined. This will create a nice base for your casserole.
6. Combining It All Together:
Now add your sautéed veggies to the egg mixture. Toss in the crumbled feta cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything a gentle mix until it’s all well combined.
7. Preparing for Baking:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the top generously with breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese for an extra crunchy topping.
8. Baking and Serving:
Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until it’s nicely set and golden brown on the top. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Slice, serve, and enjoy this warm, delightful casserole!
This Easy Baked Zucchini Spinach Feta Casserole is a sure hit for any meal! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even eggplant. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on what you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a great alternative for crunch!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just mix everything and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What Should I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or a side of crusty bread. You can also serve it as a main dish alongside some roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
