A Cheesy, Veggie-Packed Casserole Bursting with Bold Southwest Flavor

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with vegetables yet still feels indulgent, this Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, warm spices, and plenty of melty cheese, this casserole brings big Southwest flavor with minimal effort.

It’s one of those recipes that works beautifully as a vegetarian main dish, a hearty side, or even a meal-prep favorite for busy weeks. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, spooning it next to tacos, or enjoying it on its own with a dollop of sour cream, this bake delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

The best part? It’s flexible, forgiving, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake

• Veggie-forward but satisfying – even meat-lovers enjoy it

• Bold Tex-Mex flavor without being overly spicy

• Easy to customize with beans, protein, or different cheeses

• Perfect for weeknights or potlucks

• Great way to use up extra zucchini

This is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again—especially during zucchini season.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

• ½ cup red onion, finely diced

• 1 small bell pepper (red or green), diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans & Flavor Boosters

• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cheese & Creamy Base

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese

• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella

• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

Extras

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, avocado, salsa

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet

• Mixing bowl

• 9×9-inch or similar baking dish

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchinis into even half-moons about ¼-inch thick. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly and don’t release excess moisture.

Lightly sprinkle with salt and set aside for 5–10 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel. This step helps prevent a watery casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add:

• Red onion

• Bell pepper

Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add zucchini slices and cook for another 3–4 minutes, just until slightly tender (do not overcook).

Step 3: Add Tex-Mex Flavor

Stir in:

• Cherry tomatoes

• Corn kernels

• Black beans

Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook for 2–3 minutes, just until everything is combined and warmed through. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Transfer the veggie mixture to a large mixing bowl.

Fold in:

• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

• Half of the shredded cheese

Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Lightly grease your baking dish.

Spread the mixture evenly into the dish and top with the remaining shredded cheese.

For extra Tex-Mex flair, you can sprinkle a pinch of chili powder or paprika over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

If you like a crispier top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes—keep a close eye on it.

Step 7: Rest & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or fresh avocado if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake is incredibly versatile:

• Serve as a vegetarian main dish with a simple green salad

• Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp

• Spoon it into warm tortillas for a veggie taco filling

• Serve alongside Mexican rice or quinoa

• Top with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole

It’s equally delicious for lunch the next day.

Variations & Add-Ins

Make It Spicy

• Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers

• Use pepper jack cheese

• Stir in a dash of hot sauce or chipotle powder

Add Protein

• Cooked ground beef or turkey

• Shredded rotisserie chicken

• Crumbled chorizo or plant-based meat

Low-Carb Option

This recipe is already low in carbs—simply skip the corn and beans if desired.

Vegan Version

• Use dairy-free cheese

• Swap sour cream for cashew cream or plant-based yogurt

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes

• Microwave: Individual portions for 1–2 minutes

Helpful Tips for Success

• Remove excess moisture from zucchini to avoid a watery bake

• Don’t overcook vegetables before baking

• Shred your own cheese for best melting

• Let it rest before serving for clean slices

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely—or use a mix of both.

What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack all work beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Tex-Mex Zucchini Bake proves that vegetables can be bold, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. With its cheesy topping, colorful veggies, and warm Southwest spices, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a keeper—simple enough for weeknights, impressive enough for gatherings, and flexible enough to make your own.

Don’t lose this recipe—you’ll want it on repeat.