This Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish, packed with fresh yellow squash and melted cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect as a side for any meal!
I love how simple it is to whip up this casserole. Just mix, bake, and watch it disappear! It always makes me feel like a kitchen superstar—without too much effort! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! It’s tender and mild. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works great too, adding a slightly different texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor. If you prefer milder cheese, use Monterey Jack or a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamy touch.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These add creaminess. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream, while vegan mayonnaise or a nut-based yogurt can work if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
Ritz Crackers: The buttery flavor from Ritz crackers is perfect for the topping. If you don’t have them, use Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy, golden topping.
How Can I Get the Best Texture from My Squash?
Getting the squash just right is key. Make sure to cook it only until it’s tender but still holds its shape. Overcooking can result in mushy squash, which isn’t ideal for the casserole.
- Slice the squash thinly for even cooking.
- Boil briefly, then drain well. This step helps prevent excess water that could make your casserole too runny.
- Let the squash rest on paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture before mixing.
These tips will lead to a deliciously creamy and well-textured casserole that everyone will enjoy!
Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 4 cups thinly sliced yellow squash (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
For The Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or similar buttery crackers)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and then about 30-35 minutes to bake, totaling around 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that packs in flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 2-quart baking dish to prepare for the casserole.
2. Sautéing the Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little butter or oil and toss in the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. It will add a lovely flavor to your casserole!
3. Cooking the Squash:
Next, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and let it cook for 3-4 minutes—just enough to get them tender but not mushy. After that, drain the squash well and pat it dry with paper towels to absorb any extra moisture.
4. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, sautéed onion, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and any herbs you like. Gently mix everything together until well combined.
5. Assembling the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
6. Preparing the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until well combined. This will create a delicious topping! Sprinkle it evenly over the squash mixture.
7. Baking:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the topping looks golden brown.
8. Cooling and Serving:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set just a bit and makes it easier to serve!
This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and boasts a delightful crunchy topping—perfect for a comforting side dish that everyone will love! Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash?
Yes, you can use frozen yellow squash. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing it into the casserole. You may want to squeeze out extra moisture with paper towels to keep the casserole from becoming too watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and then bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise and Sour Cream?
If you want to substitute, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy flavor. For mayonnaise, you can use an equal amount of plain yogurt or even a vegan mayonnaise for a lighter option, if needed. Just keep in mind that these substitutions will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
