This Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! With layers of fresh squash and gooey cheese, it’s a great way to enjoy your veggies without a fuss.
What I love most is how it makes my kitchen smell amazing while baking. Serve it with a side salad, and you’ve got a simple meal that everyone will enjoy. Yum! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star of this dish. If you can’t find it, zucchini works in a pinch! Just slice it similarly and proceed with the recipe.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is great for flavor, but you can use mild cheddar if that’s your preference. If you’re looking for a twist, try pepper jack for a bit of spice!
Onion: Chopped onion adds flavor; however, you can substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder taste. If you’re avoiding onions, simply skip them.
Creamy Base: This casserole uses sour cream and mayonnaise. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds creaminess and protein!
Crackers: Ritz crackers lend buttery flavor, but feel free to use crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for a different crunch. Gluten-free options can also work here!
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Your Casserole?
The key to a great cheesy yellow squash casserole lies in properly processing the squash and mixing everything well. First, cooking the squash briefly helps soften it. Be sure not to overcook, so it doesn’t become mushy!
- Blanch the squash slices for about 5 minutes, then drain them well.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Use crushed crackers as a topping to add that necessary crunch. The butter helps them brown beautifully.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a creamy and crunchy casserole that everyone will love! Happy cooking!
Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 3 medium squash)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole will take about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to bake, making a total time of around 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or a nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash and slice it into about 1/4-inch thick rounds. Make sure they are evenly sliced for consistent cooking.
3. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add in the sliced squash and cook for about 5 minutes, just until they’re tender. Drain the squash well and set it aside to cool slightly.
4. Combine the Casserole Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until everything is smoothly combined.
5. Fold in the Ingredients:
Gently add the cooked squash, chopped onion, half of the shredded cheddar, and half of the crushed crackers into the mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together until well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the delightful mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining crushed crackers over the top of the casserole, then drizzle the melted butter all over. If you like, sprinkle a bit of paprika on top for color.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for it to be bubbly and the topping to turn golden brown—just heavenly!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit. Cut into squares and enjoy this cheesy goodness warm as a side or main dish!
This Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a comforting mix of creamy and cheesy with a crunchy topping, perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen yellow squash! Just make sure to thaw it beforehand and drain any excess moisture to prevent your casserole from becoming watery.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! If you’re out of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or additional sour cream for a similar creamy texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free crackers instead of regular ones. Many brands offer tasty alternatives that work wonderfully as a crunchy topping!
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.
