This Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a tasty way to enjoy summer squash! With creamy cheese and a buttery topping, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Honestly, I can’t resist that cheesy goodness. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a main course. Plus, it’s super easy to make—no fancy skills needed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works as a fantastic substitute. It’s just as tasty and has a similar texture.
Onion: I recommend using a yellow onion for its sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it or use garlic instead for a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, feel free to use mild cheddar or a cheese blend. Cheese types like Monterey Jack or Colby would also work well.
Butter: For a lighter option, you could substitute half the butter with olive oil or use a plant-based butter if you’re vegan.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be a healthy alternative to sour cream, still giving you that creamy texture.
How Do I Get My Squash to Cook Just Right?
Cooking the squash properly is key. You want it tender, but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice your squash thinly—about 1/4 inch. This helps them cook evenly.
- When you sauté them with the onion, keep an eye on the heat. Medium heat prevents burning but helps release moisture.
- If there’s excess liquid, just drain it out. Too much moisture can make your casserole watery.
Taking these steps will ensure your casserole has the perfect texture and flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups thinly sliced yellow squash (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30-35 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at a total of around 50 minutes from start to finish. Just enough time to whip this up and serve it hot and cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will help keep your casserole from sticking and make for an easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Next, add the finely chopped onion and the thinly sliced yellow squash. Cook this mixture until the squash is tender and most of the moisture has evaporated, which should take about 8-10 minutes. If you notice a lot of liquid, drain it out to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash-onion mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, sour cream, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and the optional garlic powder. Mix everything together until well combined. This is where all the cheesy goodness comes together!
4. Fill the Baking Dish:
Pour the cheesy mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. It should look lovely and ready for the oven!
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the remaining melted butter until everything is well coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture over the top of the squash mixture evenly. It’ll give a wonderful crunch!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Now, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top—a sure sign that it’s ready!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before diving in. This will help it set a little more. Serve up your delicious Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole and enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is the traditional choice, zucchini can be used as a great substitute, offering a similar texture and flavor. Feel free to mix them for a colorful dish!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can lighten it up by using low-fat cheese and sour cream or by substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of butter or using a healthier fat like olive oil for the topping.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the microwave or bake it in the oven at low heat to avoid drying it out. Enjoy your cheesy goodness later on!
