This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and tasty dish packed with fresh yellow squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s perfect as a side for any meal!
Believe me, the combination of squash and cheese will win over even the pickiest eaters at your table. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up—what’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star of this dish. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini can work as a substitute. It’s similar in texture and flavor.
Onion: I find that yellow onions add a great depth of flavor. However, if you’re sensitive to onion, you can leave it out or use shallots for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor here. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or Colby cheese are great choices. For a lighter version, you could try a reduced-fat cheese.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess to the casserole. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use plain yogurt if you want something lighter.
Crackers: Buttery crackers provide a crunchy topping, but you can use panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free crackers if needed. For a twist, try crushed pretzels for a salty kick!
How Do I Cook Yellow Squash Without Making It Mushy?
The trick to perfecting the yellow squash is cooking it just right. Here are some steps to ensure you get tender squash that still holds its shape:
- Slice the squash into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook in a skillet over medium heat with butter just until tender, around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them!
- Don’t overcook! Test for tenderness with a fork but stop before they get soft.
Following these tips will help ensure your casserole maintains that lovely squash texture while still being creamy and delicious!
Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 4 medium squash)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (such as Ritz crackers)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes, including cooling time, for a delicious, cheesy dish that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking. This will help you when you serve the casserole later!
2. Cook the Squash and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion and sliced yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the squash is tender but still has a bit of bite to it. Keep an eye on it—you want to avoid mushy squash! Once done, remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
3. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled squash and onion mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until well combined. This creamy mixture is the heart of your casserole!
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the squash mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that each bite will be just as delicious. Then, take your crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and sprinkle them evenly over the top. This topping will give your casserole a nice crispy texture!
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly casserole with a golden-brown top—your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time will help everything settle and make it easier to scoop out portions. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy yellow squash casserole!
This dish is perfect as a side or even as a main course. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen yellow squash, but it’s best to thaw and drain it first to remove excess moisture. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave. Just be mindful that the texture may be a bit softer than fresh squash.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or additional sour cream for a similar creamy texture. Just keep the total amount of the creamy ingredients the same for best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—around 15-20 minutes should do the trick!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes and cook them along with the squash and onions to ensure even tenderness.
