This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that highlights fresh yellow squash. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs to make it oh-so-tasty!
If you want a dish that feels like a warm hug, this is it! I love serving it as a side at dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: The star of this dish! Fresh yellow squash is tender and mild in flavor. If you can’t find it, zucchini makes a great substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor to the casserole. Sweet onions work well here too if you want a milder taste. If you’re short on onions, shallots can be a fine substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for a richer taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try low-fat shredded cheese or a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast for flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a similar texture with a tangy twist, or use a dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Crackers: I love using buttery crackers for a nice crunch. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
How Can I Avoid Mushy Squash in My Casserole?
The key to keeping your squash firm is to draw out excess moisture. After slicing the squash, be sure to salt it and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step ensures you’re removing liquid effectively!
- After resting, gently squeeze the squash to remove excess water.
- Cooking the onions first also helps avoid a soggy casserole by adding flavor without extra moisture.
Following these simple steps will give you a casserole with the perfect texture without compromising on taste!
Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups sliced fresh yellow squash (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz crackers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total of about 55-60 minutes before you get to enjoy this delicious casserole! Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash and slice the yellow squash into thin rounds. Place the slices in a colander, sprinkle them with a little salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your casserole doesn’t get soggy. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the squash to remove any liquid.
3. Sauté the Onion:
In a medium skillet, heat a little butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant. This will give your casserole a lovely flavor!
4. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, sautéed onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and beaten eggs. Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter, ensuring the crumbs are well coated. This will give your casserole a nice crunchy topping!
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the squash mixture in the baking dish. Then, top it with the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before digging in. This dish is perfect as a side for dinner or even as a hearty lunch!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy yellow squash casserole! It’s a delightful way to incorporate veggies into your meal. 😋
FAQ for Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but it’s best to thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Pat it dry with paper towels before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure the best texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just be sure to check the ingredients of your crackers and cheese to ensure they are vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
