Healthy Dinner Zucchini Tomato Casserole

Name: Healthy Dinner Zucchini Tomato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, sliced; 3 medium tomatoes, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Fresh Food

I absolutely love making this Healthy Dinner Zucchini Tomato Casserole! It's a fresh and vibrant dish packed with flavors from ripe tomatoes, seasonal zucchini, and aromatic herbs. Each bite is not only delicious but also healthy, making it perfect for any dinner table. The best part? It’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly, allowing me to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this casserole will soon become a weeknight favorite in your household too!

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:17:34.646Z

When I first tried this Healthy Dinner Zucchini Tomato Casserole, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it turned out! The combination of zucchini and tomatoes creates a deliciously moist dish that’s rich in nutrients. Plus, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together — perfect for those busy weeknights.

I also discovered that adding some fresh herbs like basil and oregano really enhances the taste and gives it a lovely aroma while baking. This dish has become my go-to when I want to impress guests with something healthy and flavorful!

You Will Love This Recipe Because:
Packed with fresh vegetables and nutrients
Comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy
Perfect as a main dish or as a side

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in this casserole are the zucchini and tomatoes, which not only introduce fresh flavors but also provide a wealth of nutrients. Zucchini, for example, is low in calories and high in water content, making it a perfect addition for a light yet filling meal. Choosing ripe, in-season tomatoes elevates the dish, as their sweetness balances the savory elements beautifully. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, opting for canned or diced tomatoes can work; just be sure to choose those without added sugars or preservatives.

The cheeses used in this recipe also play a crucial role in achieving that perfect creamy texture. Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving a gooey consistency, while Parmesan adds a delightful sharpness that complements the other ingredients. For a lighter option, consider using part-skim mozzarella or substituting with a non-dairy cheese that melts well. However, ensure that whatever alternative you select has a similar melt quality to maintain the desired texture in the casserole.

Perfecting Your Technique

When sautéing the onions and garlic, it’s essential to pay close attention to their color and aroma. They should become translucent and fragrant after about five minutes; this indicates they are ready to impart their flavor into the rest of the vegetables. If you notice them browning too quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning. This foundational step enhances the overall depth of flavor in the casserole.

Layering is another important technique in this recipe that ensures every bite is flavorful. When you layer the zucchini and tomatoes, make sure to distribute them evenly across the baking dish to avoid uneven cooking. The mozzarella should also be sprinkled generously between the layers; this ensures that you're not just getting cheesy goodness on top but throughout the dish. Aim for a nice contrast between the layers, with each ingredient easily distinguishable yet harmoniously combined after baking.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once your casserole is out of the oven and bubbly, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut into portions without falling apart. I love serving it alongside a light green salad to balance the richness of the cheese. For an added burst of flavor, consider drizzling some balsamic reduction over the top just before serving.

If you have leftovers, this casserole stores well in the fridge for up to four days. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Once it's completely cool, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually around 20-25 minutes. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick, healthy meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, sliced
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add in the sliced zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Mix Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the zucchini and tomato mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake

Top with Parmesan cheese and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also substitute other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, based on your preference.

Flavor Variations

This casserole is highly versatile, allowing you to incorporate various vegetables according to your preference or seasonal availability. Bell peppers, eggplant, or even spinach can all add unique flavors and textures. If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes for a kick or some chopped fresh basil just before serving to enhance the aromatic freshness of the dish.

If you're in the mood for a heartier version, adding cooked ground turkey or beef between the layers can introduce additional protein. Just be sure to season the meat well and drain off excess fat to keep the dish balanced. This can go a long way in satisfying those with larger appetites while maintaining the wholesome aspect of this dinner.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your casserole turns out too watery, it could be due to the moisture released from the zucchini and tomatoes. To mitigate this, consider salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit for 15-20 minutes before adding them to the dish. This draws out excess water that can lead to a soggy texture in the final product. Pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing them with other ingredients.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer casserole, you can increase the baking time by an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese; you want it bubbly and golden but not burnt. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the inside continues cooking through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

→ Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator and tastes great reheated.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or feta for unique flavors.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs nicely with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.