Print

Crispy Cheesy Zucchini Casserole Recipe with Easy Ritz Cracker Topping

crispy cheesy zucchini casserole - featured image

A quick and easy zucchini casserole featuring a creamy cheesy interior topped with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, grated (about 4 cups)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed (about 40 crackers)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Grate 4 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups) using a box grater or food processor.
  2. Transfer grated zucchini to a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, and toss gently. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Wrap zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained zucchini, 3 tablespoons melted butter, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 beaten eggs, 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir gently until evenly blended.
  6. Crush 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers into fine crumbs using a zip-top bag and rolling pin or pulse a few times in a food processor.
  7. Mix the cracker crumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter to help them brown evenly.
  8. Spread the zucchini mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  9. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top, pressing lightly to adhere.
  10. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  11. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  12. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Properly draining and squeezing the zucchini is crucial to avoid a soggy casserole. Press the cracker topping firmly to create a crispy crust. Tent with foil if the topping browns too quickly. For gluten-free, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or nuts. May substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini casserole, cheesy zucchini casserole, Ritz cracker topping, easy casserole, vegetarian casserole, comfort food, side dish