Zucchini Rice Casserole with Stuffing Mix

Zucchini rice casserole with stuffing mix is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This casserole combines tender zucchini, fluffy rice, and savory stuffing mix, all baked together in a creamy sauce. It’s a great side dish for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, and it’s simple to make with minimal ingredients. The stuffing mix adds a delicious texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the zucchini and rice. Whether you’re serving it with roasted chicken, turkey, or just enjoying it on its own, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. The combination of tender zucchini, seasoned stuffing mix, and creamy rice creates a dish that’s hearty yet light. The stuffing mix provides a nice, flavorful crunch that complements the soft texture of the zucchini and rice. It’s a great way to use up extra zucchini, and it’s a fantastic side dish that goes with so many main courses. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, diced

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown rice works)

• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (I prefer a savory herb variety)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for variation)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or lightly oil it.

2. Sauté the Zucchini: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is soft and begins to release some moisture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed zucchini, stuffing mix, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Stir until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings and takes around 45-50 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking time.

Variations

I like to mix things up by adding other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the casserole for extra flavor and texture. For a heartier version, I sometimes add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or sausage to the casserole. If I want a richer flavor, I’ve used a combination of cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. I’ve also tried using a different type of stuffing mix, like cornbread stuffing, for a slightly different taste.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover zucchini rice casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it up in the microwave or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have fresh zucchini on hand, you can use frozen zucchini. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.

Can I use a different kind of stuffing mix?

Absolutely! You can use any stuffing mix you like, whether it’s cornbread, herb, or even a flavored variety. Each will add a unique twist to the casserole, depending on your preferences.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well in this casserole. If using brown rice, make sure it’s cooked ahead of time, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, to make this dish vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and make sure the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Zucchini rice casserole with stuffing mix is a simple, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The tender zucchini, creamy rice, and savory stuffing mix combine to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s a delicious way to make the most of zucchini and create something hearty and filling. It’s the kind of dish that everyone will love, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!