This Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It combines tender squash with cheesy goodness, making it a delightful side for any meal!
If you’re like me, you can’t resist that bubbly cheese on top. It just makes everything better! Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies for the kids—or even for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This recipe calls for fresh yellow squash, which gives a wonderful texture and flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute with similar taste.
Cheeses: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect melty texture. Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice!
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess to the dish. For a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead, which also adds protein.
Crackers: Buttery crackers like Ritz give a nice crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free crackers or crushed corn flakes instead.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Squash for a Tender Casserole?
Cooking the squash correctly is key to getting the right texture in this casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- First, slice the squash evenly so it cooks uniformly.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the squash slices.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until they’re just tender. Don’t let them get mushy!
- Drain the squash well and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
These steps ensure your casserole has great texture without being watery. Trust me, it’s worth the extra care!
Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables and Base:
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 4 medium yellow squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or saltines)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time required for this recipe is about 50-60 minutes. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for preparation and then about 30-35 minutes for baking. It’s a quick and easy dish to whip up for a lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×9-inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the sliced yellow squash and cook for about 5 minutes. We want them tender but still firm. Once done, drain them through a colander and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, finely chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, sour cream, eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you chose to use it). Gently fold everything together until well mixed. This filling is going to be super cheesy and delicious!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, pour the squash mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite gets that cheesy goodness.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, take your crushed buttery crackers and pour in the melted butter. Mix until all the crumbs are nicely coated in butter. This will give it a nice crispy texture on top!
6. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the squash mixture in the casserole dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps it set a bit. Then, scoop it out and enjoy your cheesy yellow squash casserole! It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a light main course.
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini is a great alternative as it has a similar texture and flavor. You can even mix both for added color and taste!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking and cooling completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until hot.
