This creamy yellow squash casserole is the ultimate comfort dish! With fresh squash, gooey cheese, and a crispy topping, it’s a hit for any meal.
What I love most is it’s easy to whip up and perfect as a side or a main! Plus, it makes veggies taste so good, you might just go back for seconds—no judgment here! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for this dish. If you can’t find it, zucchini works well as a substitute. Both have a mild flavor that pairs nicely with cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, try Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheeses for extra creaminess.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess to the casserole. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace both. It adds a nice tang without compromising texture.
Crushed Crackers: I usually use buttery crackers for that crunch. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crumbled cornflakes as a topping.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Creamy And Not Dry?
The key to a creamy casserole is balancing moisture. Pre-cook the squash and onions briefly to remove excess water, preventing the casserole from becoming watery.
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. It melts better, enhancing creaminess.
- Mix the sour cream and mayonnaise thoroughly with the other ingredients to distribute evenly.
- Check for doneness; the casserole should be bubbling around the edges before removing from the oven.
Letting it cool for a few minutes helps it set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your cooking! 😄
Creamy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 4 medium squash)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to bake. All together, you’ll need about an hour, so you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is fundamental for a perfectly cooked casserole. While it heats up, you can begin preparing the rest of the dish!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions. You want to cook them just for about 5 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. Once cooked, drain them well and set them aside to cool a bit.
3. Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, throw in the cooked squash and onions. Then, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. If you’re using them, now’s the time to add garlic powder or paprika for flavor. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour this delicious mixture into your greased 9×13 casserole dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until it’s nicely combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your casserole for that perfect crunch.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. It’s starting to smell amazing, isn’t it?
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set up a little bit. Now you’re ready to dig in! Serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it on its own as a hearty vegetarian main.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy yellow squash casserole—such a comforting dish that brings smiles all around! 😊
FAQ About Creamy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash?
Yes, you can use frozen yellow squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This ensures the texture remains creamy and prevents excess water in the dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with a reduced-fat cheese option. Adding more veggies like spinach or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition as well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water or milk if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
