This easy yellow squash casserole is a warm, cozy dish made with fresh squash, cheese, and a crunchy topping. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but tasty enough for special occasions!
Honestly, I love how creamy it is while still being light! I often add extra cheese just to make it extra cheesy. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds—don’t worry, I won’t judge! 😉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for this dish. If you can’t find it, zucchini works well as a substitute. It has a similar texture and mild flavor, perfect for casseroles.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. If you prefer something milder, you can use medium cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and gouda for extra creaminess.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Both ingredients add richness. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you want a healthier option. For mayonnaise, you could use a vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative.
Crushed Crackers: Butter or salt-free crackers give a nice crunch. If you’re gluten-free, crushed gluten-free crackers work wonderfully. You can even make your own from gluten-free bread if you have it on hand.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for the Casserole?
The texture of your casserole hinges on cooking the squash properly. Sautéing the squash and onion helps to soften and infuse flavor before mixing them into the casserole. Make sure you drain excess liquid, as too much moisture can make your casserole watery.
- Cook the squash and onion on medium heat until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before combining it with the other ingredients to maintain the right consistency.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the casserole dish to ensure even cooking.
Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 10 minutes to prep and 35 minutes to bake, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to table. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Sauté these over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes until they become tender. Once done, drain any excess liquid to keep the casserole from becoming watery.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula to make sure it cooks evenly.
5. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. This will give the casserole a lovely crunchy topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the squash mixture in the casserole dish.
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. You want it to be golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.
7. Let Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set a bit, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy yellow squash casserole! It’s perfect as a side dish or a main course!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delightful, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
How Can I Make It Vegetarian?
This casserole is already vegetarian! If you want to make it even heartier, feel free to add in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the squash mixture before baking.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven, and adjust the baking time if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When rewarming, use an oven or microwave, ensuring it’s heated all the way through. Enjoy it as a quick meal or side dish again!
