This Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is comforting and delicious! It features fresh squash mixed with cheese and a buttery topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Every bite is creamy and cheesy, making veggies easy to love. I usually pair it with grilled chicken, and let’s be honest, leftovers are just as tasty the next day! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star of this dish. You can also use zucchini if you want a twist or if squash is hard to find. It has a similar texture and works well.
Onion: A medium onion adds flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use green onions for a milder taste.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a strong flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Feel free to mix with pepper jack for a spicy kick or use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
Crackers or Cornflakes: I love using buttery crackers for topping, but if you’re out, crushed tortilla chips or even panko breadcrumbs can work. They both add a delicious crunch!
How Do I Get My Squash to Be Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender squash in this casserole is to draw out excess moisture. After slicing the squash and mixing it with salt, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out the water, helping the squash cook down nicely without making the casserole watery.
- Use a colander to drain off the liquid from the squash mixture.
- Press gently to remove any extra moisture; this step is crucial.
By taking this extra step, you’ll ensure your casserole is hearty and not soggy. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups thinly sliced yellow squash (about 3-4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy yellow squash casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 45 to 55 minutes of baking time. It’s a simple and satisfying dish to prepare, making it perfect for any dinner table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Draw Out Moisture
In a large bowl, combine the sliced yellow squash, chopped onion, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out moisture from the squash, which is very important for a perfect casserole.
3. Drain Excess Liquid
After letting the squash sit, use a colander or cheesecloth to drain out the excess liquid. Press gently to get rid of as much water as you can. This step will keep your casserole from being too watery!
4. Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In another large bowl, combine the melted butter, beaten eggs, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and flour. Mix these ingredients until everything is well combined.
5. Mix in Squash
Now, stir the drained squash and onion mixture into the batter you just made. Mix it well until everything is coated evenly.
6. Add Some Cheese
Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the squash mixture, giving it a good stir to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
7. Pour the Mixture into the Dish
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
8. Make the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers (or cornflakes) with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake It
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the casserole feels firm in the middle.
10. Enjoy!
Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set nicely. Serve it warm, and enjoy your creamy and cheesy yellow squash casserole!
This dish is not only creamy inside but also features a crispy, cheesy topping. It makes the perfect side dish for any comforting meal! Enjoy! 🥘
FAQ for Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with zucchini or a mix of both. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you use larger or thicker squash slices.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead of time. Just assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Crackers for the Topping?
If you don’t have crackers on hand, you can use crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for that delightful crunchy topping!
