Name: Shredded Zucchini Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded zucchini; 1 pound breakfast sausage (or ground meat of choice); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded hash browns (thawed if frozen); 4 large eggs; 1 small onion, diced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)

Golden, bubbly, and packed with layers of comforting flavor, this Shredded Zucchini Casserole is the perfect answer to weeknight dinners or lazy weekend brunches. It brings together garden-fresh zucchini, savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese in one irresistibly hearty dish. Whether you’re trying to use up a bounty of summer zucchini or just craving a meal that satisfies every comfort food craving, this casserole hits the spot.

What makes it special is its texture—creamy yet firm with a crispy, golden top that forms as it bakes. It’s a complete meal in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a side of fruit for a balanced table. It stores well, reheats like a dream, and even freezes if you’re thinking ahead. This casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly practical.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare your Shredded Zucchini Casserole, it helps to have the right tools on hand for both ease and efficiency:

Box Grater or Food Processor with Shredding Blade: Essential for quickly shredding zucchini to the perfect texture that blends well without making the dish watery.
Cheesecloth or Clean Towel: Crucial for squeezing excess moisture out of the zucchini to prevent a soggy casserole.
Large Mixing Bowl: Needed to evenly combine all the ingredients.

Skillet: For browning the sausage or ground meat. A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and adds flavor by caramelizing the meat.
9×13 Baking Dish: The ideal size for evenly baking the casserole and creating those crispy edges we all love.
Oven: Preheated and ready to go—baking ensures all the flavors melt together and the top gets that crave-worthy golden crust.

With these kitchen essentials, the process is straightforward and smooth, allowing you to focus on the fun part: layering flavors into one hearty, savory masterpiece.

Ingredients for the Shredded Zucchini Casserole

Zucchini: Freshly shredded zucchini forms the hearty base of the casserole, bringing moisture and a mild flavor that absorbs all the spices and meatiness.
Breakfast Sausage or Ground Meat: Adds savory depth and richness. Choose spicy sausage for a kick, or stick to mild for a family-friendly version.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey, golden goodness that binds the whole dish together.
Shredded Hash Browns: These give the casserole a tender bite and structure, balancing the softness of the zucchini.
Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and give the casserole a fluffy, cohesive texture.

Onion: Adds aromatic flavor and a little bite that complements the sausage.
Garlic Powder & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall savory flavor.
Chopped Chives (optional): For a fresh, herby finish on top.

How To Make the Shredded Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place it in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is key for avoiding a watery casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small crumbles and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, cooked sausage, hash browns, cheddar cheese, onion, eggs, and seasonings. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or chives, if desired. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything hold together and makes serving easier.

Serving and Storing Shredded Zucchini Casserole

Serve this casserole warm with a side of fresh fruit or a leafy green salad. It’s a meal on its own but also works great for brunch spreads or potlucks. You can even cut it into squares and pack it for meal prep throughout the week.

To store, let the casserole cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight and warm before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?

Make sure to squeeze out all the excess moisture from the zucchini using a cheesecloth or towel.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next day.

What meat substitutes can I use?

You can use plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.

Can I use frozen hash browns?

Absolutely, just thaw and pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Is it spicy?

Only if you use spicy sausage. Choose a mild variety for less heat.

Can I add other veggies?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach all make great additions.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re into cozy, filling bakes like this, check out these favorites from Life With Olivia:

Mexican Cornbread Casserole for a spicy southern twist.

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole with hearty holiday comfort.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that tastes like a million bucks.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you want something a bit fancy.

Scalloped Corn Casserole as a sweet-savory side.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies? Swap the sausage? I love hearing your takes on these recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s make cooking more fun, together!

Shredded Zucchini Casserole

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Shredded Zucchini Casserole is a golden, cheesy, and hearty meal layered with fresh zucchini, savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheddar. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or meal prep—it’s comfort food made simple, healthy, and delicious.