Smoky Zucchini Casserole

Smoky Zucchini Casserole

A quick smoky roux rounds out the flavors of this comforting zucchini casserole featuring carrot, onion, and Cheddar baked under a golden brown, panko-encrusted top.

Preparation Time
20 mins
Cooking Time
55 mins
Total Time
1 hr 15 mins
Calories
244 Calories

Recipe Instructions

Step 1
Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat until a pinch of flour sprinkled into the oil will just begin to bubble. Whisk in flour, stirring constantly until mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown, about 5 minutes. Slowly add milk, stirring to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until a smooth, thick sauce is obtained, about 10 minutes more. Whisk in bouillon, paprika, and thyme. Remove from heat and let sauce cool.
Step 2
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly butter a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Step 3
Melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and onion; saute until softened, 12 to 15 minutes. Add carrot and continue cooking for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 4
Add egg to the cooled sauce; whisk rapidly until smooth. Add Cheddar cheese and mix to combine.
Step 5
Layer zucchini mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Pour sauce over vegetables and give it a slight stir to moisten throughout. Sprinkle bread crumbs on top and spray lightly with cooking spray.
Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven until bread crumbs start to brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Broil until panko is nicely browned, 2 to 4 minutes more. Remove from oven and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 6 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 large carrot, shredded
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
  • cooking spray
  • 3 large zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.25 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
  • 0.25 sweet onion (such as Vidalia®), sliced
  • 1.5 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 0.33333334326744 cup panko bread crumbs, or to taste

Categories

Similar Recipes You May Like

Zucchini Pie Bars

Zucchini Pie Bars

Cinnamon Oatmeal Zucchini Cookies

Cinnamon Oatmeal Zucchini Cookies

Zucchini Nut Cake

Zucchini Nut Cake

Zucchini Chocolate Oatmeal Bites

Zucchini Chocolate Oatmeal Bites

Taco-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Taco-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Shredded Zucchini Tots

Shredded Zucchini Tots

Baked Zucchini Parmesan Fries

Baked Zucchini Parmesan Fries

Chef John's Turkey Noodle Casserole

Chef John's Turkey Noodle Casserole