This Easy Savory Tomato Zucchini Rice Casserole is a cozy dish that brings together fresh tomatoes, tender zucchini, and fluffy rice. It’s filled with flavors that make it hard to resist!
I love how it’s a one-pan wonder! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and you’re free to relax. Perfect for busy nights when you still want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I recommend using uncooked white rice for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice works well too but requires more cooking time. Just remember to adjust the broth quantity accordingly!
Vegetables: Zucchini is the star here, but you could also add bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms if you like. They’ll all bring their unique flavors to the dish.
Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or chicken broth for a heartier flavor. Home-made broth is always a plus if you have any! If you’re in a pinch, use water with some herbs added.
Cheese: While mozzarella adds a nice stretchiness, feel free to substitute with cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese if you need to keep it vegan!
How Do You Achieve the Best Texture for the Casserole?
Getting the texture just right is key for casseroles. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the rice until it’s just done. It’ll finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overdo it!
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant; this builds a flavor base.
- When mixing everything together, be gentle. You want the rice to remain fluffy, not mushy.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
Easy Savory Tomato Zucchini Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 2 large tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, and then around 30 minutes for cooking and baking. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for when your casserole is ready to bake!
2. Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Zucchini and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the diced zucchini and cook for about 5-6 minutes until it’s slightly tender. Then add in the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and the flavors mix deliciously.
5. Combine Rice and Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked rice with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Mix everything well, then stir in half of the shredded cheese. It’s time to create a cheesy and hearty filling!
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining cheese and the grated Parmesan on top. Yum!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You want it heated through and the cheese to be bubbly and golden.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes (this helps it to set). If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch. Then, serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish!
FAQ for Easy Savory Tomato Zucchini Rice Casserole
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Brown rice usually takes about 35-40 minutes to cook, so adjust the time accordingly. You may also need to increase the amount of broth by about 1/4 cup.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms! Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces as the zucchini for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it into the oven—no need to thaw!