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Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Rice Casserole Recipe with Herb Breadcrumbs

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A quick and easy casserole featuring a crispy herb breadcrumb topping, tender zucchini, and a creamy cheesy rice base. Perfect for family dinners and adaptable to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis, grated and lightly squeezed to remove excess moisture
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (day-old rice preferred)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set aside.
  2. Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, grated zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, beaten eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
  5. In a small bowl, stir together panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, chopped parsley, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt to make the herb breadcrumb topping.
  6. Pour the rice and zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the herb breadcrumb mixture generously over the top.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy and the casserole is set (a knife inserted in the center should come out clean).
  8. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it firm up.

Notes

Squeeze zucchini well to avoid sogginess. Use day-old rice for better texture. If breadcrumbs brown too fast, cover casserole loosely with foil halfway through baking. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and almond milk instead of whole milk. Rest casserole before serving to firm up.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini casserole, cheesy casserole, rice casserole, herb breadcrumbs, comfort food, vegetarian casserole, easy dinner

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-cheesy-zucchini-rice-casserole-recipe-with-herb-breadcrumbs-easy-and-delicious/