Yellow squash casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. I remember the first time I tasted it at a family gathering. My aunt had whipped it up and the aroma filled the kitchen. It was creamy, cheesy, and had just the right amount of seasoning. Since then, I have made it countless times, tweaking the recipe to my liking. Today, I want to share my favorite yellow squash casserole recipe with you.
Ingredients for Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
To make this delicious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of yellow squash, sliced thinly
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
How to Make Yellow Squash Casserole
The first step in making this casserole is preparing the yellow squash. I usually wash the squash thoroughly and slice it thinly. This ensures that it cooks evenly in the casserole. You can choose to peel the squash, but I prefer to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Wash and slice the squash thinly.
- Chop the onion into small pieces.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cooking the Squash
To bring out the flavors, I like to sauté the squash and onion before adding them to the casserole. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the squash and onion, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. This step not only enhances the flavor but also reduces excess moisture in the casserole.
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Add the squash and onion, cooking until tender.
- Drain any excess liquid before adding to the casserole.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion with the remaining ingredients. This includes the shredded cheese, sour cream, crushed crackers, eggs, milk, melted butter, and spices. I usually mix everything gently to avoid breaking down the squash too much. The mixture should be creamy and well combined.
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Mix gently to keep the squash intact.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
Assembling the Casserole
Once the mixture is ready, I transfer it to a greased casserole dish. Spreading it evenly helps ensure that all parts cook uniformly. I often use a 9×13 inch dish, but any similar size will work. The key is to make sure the mixture is evenly distributed.
- Grease a casserole dish.
- Pour the mixture into the dish.
- Spread evenly across the bottom.
Baking the Casserole
Now it’s time to bake the casserole. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste.
- Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.
- Look for a golden brown top.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Ideas for Yellow Squash Casserole
Yellow squash casserole is a versatile dish. I love serving it as a side dish to grilled chicken or pork. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, too. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light meal. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Serve with grilled meats.
- Pair with a fresh salad.
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy. I recommend placing the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerating it. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Tips
Over the years, I have learned a few tips to make the perfect yellow squash casserole:
- Use fresh squash for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle additional crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Variations on Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
This casserole is quite flexible. You can customize it based on your preferences. For a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you love herbs, adding fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
- Use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different cheeses.
- Add herbs for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
Yellow squash casserole is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender squash makes it a comforting dish. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
- Comforting and satisfying.
- Great for gatherings and family meals.
- Easy to customize based on your taste.
This yellow squash casserole recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and warm conversations. I encourage you to try it out and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your twist, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this comforting dish just like I did.