Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the sliced zucchini or yellow squash and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is slightly tender-crisp and has released some of its moisture. You don't want it mushy, just softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In a clean large skillet (or the same skillet wiped clean), melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will thicken your sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and then the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup), stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Assemble and Bake the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sautéed zucchini and onion mixture with the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter, stirring until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs evenly over the squash mixture. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
To make ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
