This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. With tender yellow squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping, it’s simple yet delightful!
I love serving this casserole on cozy nights. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, and I always tell myself it counts as health food because of the squash, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, zucchini works well as a substitute. It’ll give a similar look and taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for that rich flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead. You could even use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for a tangy taste, and it’s lower in fat. Coconut yogurt is also an option for a dairy-free version.
Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz give a delicious crunchy topping. If you don’t have them, any buttery crackers or even panko breadcrumbs can work. Panko will give a lighter crunch!
How Do I Cook Yellow Squash so it’s Tender and Delicious?
Cooking yellow squash properly is essential for a tasty casserole. You want it tender without turning mushy. Here’s how:
- Start by slicing the yellow squash thinly; about 1/4 inch is ideal.
- In your skillet, melt butter and add the squash and onions. Cooking them on medium heat for 8-10 minutes softens them.
- Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. If you notice they start browning, it’s a sign you should lower the heat a bit.
Letting them cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients is key too, as it helps the casserole set nicely.
Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will need an additional 30-35 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes before you can enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking—this will help with easy serving later!
2. Cook the Squash and Onion:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion. Cook while stirring occasionally until the squash is tender—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This step helps maintain the flavor and texture of the squash.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled squash mixture with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed and creamy. This is the heart of your casserole!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out with a spatula to create an even layer—this helps all parts cook uniformly.
5. Create the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), and melted butter. This will create a crunchy, buttery topping that adds great texture. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole, covering the filling nicely.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set and the topping is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell fantastic!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is delightful served warm and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a hearty side for any dinner.
Enjoy this easy and comforting casserole with family and friends!
FAQ about Easy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with zucchini or even a mix of both for a fun twist. Just ensure that whatever squash you use is thinly sliced for even cooking.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This casserole is already vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat. Just double-check that your cheese and crackers are vegetarian-friendly, and you’re all set!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in the oven cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can microwave it for a quicker option.
