This Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal. With soft squash, creamy cheese, and crispy topping, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy this is to make! Just mix everything together, bake until bubbly, and enjoy a comforting dish that makes veggies fun. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash adds a lovely texture and mild flavor. If you can’t find it, zucchini works as a great substitute. Just slice it similarly for an easy swap!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that classic cheesy flavor. Feel free to use a mixture of cheeses; Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are delicious alternatives, too!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt substitutes well for both. It offers the same creaminess without the extra calories.
Buttery Crackers: For a crunchy topping, I love using Ritz crackers. You can also substitute with gluten-free crackers or even crushed potato chips if you’re looking for a different texture.
How Do I Ensure My Squash is Not Mushy?
To keep your squash from turning mushy, it’s important to just blanch it briefly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Boil the squash and onions together for just 5 minutes. You want them tender but still with a bit of bite.
- After draining, let them sit for a moment to remove excess moisture, which helps keep the casserole from getting watery.
This technique will ensure your casserole has great texture while still being creamy and delicious! Enjoy cooking!
Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 3 medium squash)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or Ritz crackers
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking time. That’s just about 45 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, in a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onions. Cook for about 5 minutes, just until the squash is tender but not mushy. After cooking, drain the squash and onions well to remove excess water.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash and onions with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and the optional garlic powder or herbs if you’re using them. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy!
3. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Next, pour the cheesy squash mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish (or a round baker, if you prefer). Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
4. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until evenly coated. This will create a delicious crunchy topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheesy squash filling in your casserole dish.
5. Bake and Serve:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole as a heartwarming side dish or a delightful main course!
FAQ for Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. Frozen squash may not need to be boiled, so you can skip that step!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it uses only squash, onions, and dairy products. To boost the veggie flavor, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to keep it creamy!
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a comforting side with other veggie-forward meals. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal!
