The Best Sausage And Zucchini Casserole Recipe
When my garden started overflowing with zucchini one summer, I knew I had to get creative. That’s when I came up with this Sausage and Zucchini Casserole. It’s a dish that’s become a family favorite simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. The combination of savory sausage, tender zucchini, and gooey cheese makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it just right, and now it’s a go-to dish for busy weeknights or when I’m feeding a crowd. If you’re looking for a way to use up zucchini or just want a delicious, easy casserole, this recipe is for you. Let me show you how to make it it’s a dish you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup uncooked rice or pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the zucchini, diced tomatoes (with their juice), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini starts to soften.
- If using rice, cook it according to the package instructions until just undercooked. If using pasta, cook it until al dente.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, zucchini mixture, and rice or pasta. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.