Zucchini Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella and Creamy Sauce

### Instructions: How to Make Zucchini Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella and Creamy Sauce

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat **2 tablespoons of olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **diced onion** and **bell pepper**, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized. Next, add the **sliced zucchini** and cook for an additional **3-4 minutes**, stirring occasionally. You want the zucchini to soften slightly but still retain some texture. Add the **cherry tomatoes** and cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Season the vegetables with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper**.

#### Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **heavy cream**, **sour cream**, **grated Parmesan cheese**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, and a bit more **salt** and **pepper** to taste. The creamy sauce should be smooth and slightly thick. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a little more Parmesan.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Layer the sautéed vegetables into the prepared casserole dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle the **shredded mozzarella cheese** on top, followed by a light sprinkle of **breadcrumbs** for added crunch.

#### Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about **20-25 minutes**, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned around the edges.

#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh **chopped basil** or **parsley** for a burst of color and freshness.

### Tips for the Perfect Zucchini Vegetable Casserole

– **Use Fresh Ingredients**: The quality of the zucchini and tomatoes can really elevate this dish, so try to use fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor.
– **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
– **Make It Ahead**: This casserole can be made ahead of time! Simply prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and follow the instructions.
– **For Extra Creaminess**: If you love a richer casserole, you can add more cream or even some cream cheese to the sauce for an extra velvety texture.

### Why This Zucchini Vegetable Casserole is Perfect for Any Occasion

– **A Healthy Comfort Food**: Packed with nutritious vegetables, this casserole is a great way to enjoy a comforting dish without compromising on health. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy sauce makes it a satisfying, guilt-free indulgence.
– **Great for Meal Prep**: If you love having meals ready to go, this casserole can be made in advance and reheated for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
– **Perfect for Vegetarians**: With its hearty vegetables, rich sauce, and gooey mozzarella, this casserole makes a great main course for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter, meat-free meal.

### Conclusion: A Creamy, Flavorful Dish Your Family Will Love

**Zucchini Vegetable Casserole with Mozzarella and Creamy Sauce** is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both worlds: fresh vegetables and indulgent, creamy cheese. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy zucchini or need a dish that’s perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Try it today, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy vegetable casserole that’s as healthy as it is delicious!