This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is a cozy dish that’s perfect for family dinners! With tender yellow squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping, it’s simply delicious.
I love how quick it is to put together—just layer it all up and pop it in the oven! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get more veggies in your day. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can also use zucchini in place of yellow squash if that’s what you have. Both provide a mild, pleasant taste.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor, but you can swap it for shallots or even garlic if you prefer a richer taste. Don’t shy away from using green onions for a fresher twist!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try low-fat cheese or even mozzarella for a milder taste!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for sour cream. It’s creamy and adds a touch of tang, making the dish even healthier!
Mayonnaise: If you’re looking to cut calories, use Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo. Both give that creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.
Crushed Butter Crackers: Instead of buttery crackers, you could use crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs. Just mix them with a bit of melted butter to keep it crispy!
How Do I Get My Squash Just Right?
Cooking the squash before mixing it helps remove excess moisture, so your casserole doesn’t get soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice your squash into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Boil in salted water for just about 5 minutes—the goal is to tenderize, not cook it to mush.
- Drain and give it time to steam off any remaining water to avoid sogginess in your casserole.
Taking these small steps can make all the difference in your casserole’s final texture!
Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, bringing your total time to around 40 minutes. Just enough time to get everything ready and enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a large pot of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Cook the Squash:
Add the sliced yellow squash to the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes until the squash is just tender. Drain the squash well to remove excess moisture, then set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix Up the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until evenly combined. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that every bite gets that wonderful flavor.
5. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. This will give your casserole a delicious, crunchy topping. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the squash mixture for that perfect golden finish.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell fantastic!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This easy yellow squash casserole makes a delicious side dish or a hearty main. Dig in and enjoy the comfort it brings!
FAQ for Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! You can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or even a mix of both for added flavor and color. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly to keep it fresh, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or rewarm it in the oven until heated through—yummy comfort food awaits!
What If I Don’t Have Buttery Crackers for the Topping?
No worries! You can use crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter, or even panko for a crunchy topping. Each option offers a delightful texture and flavor!
