This Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It combines tender yellow squash with cheesy goodness, making veggies fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is essential for this recipe. If you can’t find it, zucchini is a great substitute that works similarly in flavor and texture.
Onion: A medium onion adds flavor, but you can use green onions for a milder taste or shallots for a sweeter note if you prefer.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a rich, cheesy flavor. You could swap it for other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses, depending on your taste.
Crackers or Cornflakes: For a crunchy topping, buttery crackers work well. If you need a gluten-free option, try gluten-free crackers or crushed popcorn for a unique twist!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These add creaminess. For a lighter version, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute, providing creaminess and a boost in protein.
How Do I Ensure the Best Texture for My Casserole?
To get a nice texture in your casserole, start by properly cooking the squash. Boil it briefly until just tender, so it doesn’t become mushy in the oven.
- Drain the squash well after boiling—excess moisture can make your casserole soggy.
- Mix the squash gently with the other ingredients to keep some of its texture.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Letting the casserole cool slightly after baking helps it set and makes serving easier. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 3 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, according to preference)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Total time is around 50 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish (around 8×8 inches) to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully add the sliced yellow squash and let it boil for about 5 minutes, until tender but not mushy. After cooking, drain the squash well and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix these ingredients until smooth and well combined. This will create a creamy base for your casserole!
4. Combine Ingredients:
After mixing the base, add in the cooked squash, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. The mixture will be a bit thick, but that’s just right!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the squash mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula so it cooks uniformly. This is the foundation of your delicious casserole!
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give your dish a lovely crunchy topping!
7. Bake It:
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. You’ll love the tempting smell that fills your kitchen!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully as a side with roasted meats, or it can stand alone as a comforting vegetarian main. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, golden yellow squash casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen yellow squash! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before incorporating it into the recipe. This helps maintain the desired texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the regular crispy topping with gluten-free crackers or crushed cornflakes instead. Just check the labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free!
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, just bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What Are Some Good Serving Suggestions?
This Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a wholesome vegetarian main. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a light meal!
