This Keto-Friendly Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional casseroles. Packed with fresh zucchini, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings, this dish is perfect for those following a keto lifestyle. It’s easy to prepare, and the flavors are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this as a side dish or even as a main course!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (for a crispy topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for the topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchini into thin rounds or half-moons. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also choose to slightly salt the zucchini slices and let them rest for 10 minutes before patting them dry to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini softens and begins to lightly brown. Remove the zucchini from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- In a greased 9×9-inch or similar-sized casserole dish, layer the sautéed zucchini and pour the creamy cheese sauce over it. Stir gently to combine and ensure the zucchini is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Make the Crispy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the almond flour and melted butter. Stir until the almond flour is fully coated in the butter.
- Sprinkle this almond flour mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crispy, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This dish is perfect as a side or even a light main course.
Tips for Success:
- Zucchini Moisture: Zucchini can release a lot of water when cooking. Be sure to sauté it until it’s slightly golden to help remove excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This prevents the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different cheeses for added flavor. A mix of cheddar, cream cheese, or Gruyère can add richness and complexity to the dish.
- Add Protein: To make this a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to the casserole for extra protein.
- Low-Carb Topping: The almond flour topping provides a crispy texture, but you can also skip it for a more creamy casserole or use crushed pork rinds for a crunchy low-carb option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 4g
Conclusion:
This Keto-Friendly Cheesy Zucchini Casserole is a great way to enjoy a comforting, low-carb meal without compromising on taste. It’s perfect for keto enthusiasts or anyone looking to reduce carbs while still enjoying a delicious, cheesy dish. Serve it with a side of grilled chicken or your favorite low-carb protein for a complete meal!
