This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for family meals. It’s made with fresh yellow squash, cheese, and a crispy topping that everyone will love!
I love making this casserole because it brings smiles at the dinner table—especially when the cheesy goodness melts in your mouth. Trust me, it’s an easy way to get the kids to eat their veggies! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute as it cooks similarly and has a mild taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, try Monterey Jack or gouda. For non-dairy options, shredded vegan cheese works well too!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These ingredients add creaminess. You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If mayonnaise is not your thing, more sour cream or yogurt can be used.
Crushed Crackers: Buttery crackers give a nice crunch. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. For a healthier twist, try using crushed whole grain crackers.
How Do I Make Sure My Squash Is Not Soggy?
To avoid a watery casserole, proper preparation of the squash is important. After boiling, always drain and pat the squash dry. Removing excess water will keep your casserole from becoming mushy.
- Cut squash evenly for consistent cooking.
- Boil until just tender; overcooking will release more moisture.
- Make sure to drain thoroughly and gently press with a paper towel to absorb extra moisture.
Following these steps will help ensure you have a perfectly textured casserole that shines with flavor! Enjoy cooking! 😊
Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to bake, making it a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a family meal after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your casserole when you’re done prepping.
2. Prepare the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring some water to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, just until they are tender but not mushy. Then carefully drain the mixture well and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture.
3. Mix Everything Together:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained squash and onions with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Stir gently until everything is nicely combined and coated.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the squash mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are completely coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
7. Let it Cool:
After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to scoop out servings and enjoy with your family!
Enjoy your homemade Easy Yellow Squash Casserole—it’s comforting, cheesy, and a great way to enjoy vegetables! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is the primary vegetable, you can also add zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure all veggies are tender.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the prepared casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it should last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed. If baking from frozen, you may need to increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes.
