Air Fryer Squash and Zucchini Casserole

This Air Fryer Squash and Zucchini Casserole has become one of my favorite quick veggie sides because it’s creamy, crisp on top, and surprisingly easy to make. You get tender yellow squash and zucchini baked together in a cheesy, savory mixture, all finished with a golden, crunchy topping. It tastes like comfort food but cooks fast and feels lighter than traditional casseroles.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 2 cups sliced yellow squash
• 2 cups sliced zucchini
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Casserole Base

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

Topping

• ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

• Slice the squash and zucchini into thin rounds.
• Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and sliced onions.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to soften them slightly. This prevents a watery casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

• In a bowl, mix:
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheese
  • Eggs
  • Garlic powder
  • Thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Paprika
• Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Everything

• Add the pre-cooked squash and zucchini to the cheese mixture.
• Gently fold to coat the vegetables completely.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping

• In a small bowl, combine:
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Parmesan
  • Melted butter

Step 5: Assemble

• Grease a heat-safe baking dish that fits inside your air fryer.
• Pour in the veggie mixture.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.

Step 6: Air Fry

• Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set properly.

@carolynblake214

Tips for the Best Squash & Zucchini Casserole

• Slice vegetables evenly, so they cook uniformly.
• Pre-air-frying the veggies helps avoid excess liquid.
• For extra richness, mix cheddar and mozzarella cheese together.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
• Use a shallow dish for a crispier top layer.

Variations

• Low-Carb Option
  Replace Panko with crushed pork rinds.
• Protein Boost
  Add cooked chicken, ground turkey, or crumbled bacon.
• Cheesy Version
  Add an extra ½ cup of cheese inside the casserole.
• Gluten-Free
  Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping.
• Veggie Mix-ins
  Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Spoon over cooked rice or quinoa for a full meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs on top.
• Pair with a simple salad to balance the richness.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months (best without the crunchy topping).
• Reheat: Air fry at 325°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for quick reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble everything except the topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add topping right before air frying.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Pre-cook the squash and zucchini in the air fryer to remove excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole.

Can I use only zucchini or only squash?

Absolutely. The recipe works perfectly with either one alone.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese, coconut yogurt instead of sour cream, and olive oil instead of butter.

Which baking dish works best?

Use a shallow, oven-safe dish or mini casserole dish that fits inside your air fryer basket.

Can I bake it in the oven instead?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden.

This Air Fryer Squash and Zucchini Casserole is the kind of dish that turns simple vegetables into something warm, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights but special enough for a weekend dinner. Every bite has a great balance of creamy veggies and crispy topping, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again