Are you looking for a comforting dish that brings out the best of seasonal produce? If so, look no further than this delightful squash casserole. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s the perfect blend of healthy and satisfying. Whether you serve it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just because you want something delicious, this casserole will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This squash casserole is not just another side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures! Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. This makes it easy to whip up at a moment’s notice.
- Deliciously Versatile: You can easily make it your own by switching up proteins or adding different herbs and spices.
- Family-Friendly: Even the kiddos will love this creamy, cheesy dish! It’s a great way to introduce them to veggies.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole stores wonderfully, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you need a quick meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make the most scrumptious squash casserole:
- 2 pounds of yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious squash casserole.
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to go.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Then, add the sliced yellow squash and continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the squash is tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed squash and onion mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until combined.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch before serving. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
Once you’ve made this scrumptious squash casserole, here’s how to serve and store it:
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Roasted chicken or turkey.
- Grilled fish with lemon.
- A fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is always a win!), here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure it is well-sealed!
Helpful Tips
Making squash casserole is pretty straightforward, but a few tips can help you nail it every time:
1. Choose the Right Squash
Go for fresh, firm yellow squash. Choose squashes that are small to medium-sized, as larger ones tend to have more seeds and less flavor.
2. Spice It Up!
If you like a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Flavor is all about personal preference!
3. Make it Your Own
Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, sausage, or even some spinach for extra nutrients. The options are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! You can substitute with zucchini or a mix of both yellow squash and zucchini. The cooking time may vary slightly based on the type of squash used.
2. Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. It might take a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
4. How can I make it creamier?
If you’re looking for an extra creamy texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or even cream cheese to the mix. You can also add some milk for a lighter, creamier feel.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat squash casserole is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil. This helps maintain moisture without making it soggy.
Conclusion
This squash casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience, brimming with flavors and warmth that will make your heart smile. Whether it’s an everyday dinner or a special occasion, it checks all the boxes: health, taste, and easy preparation. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor every bite. Your family and friends will surely appreciate it, making it a dish you’ll come back to time and again.
Delicious Squash Casserole Recipe Easy Flavorful Comfort Food
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Discover this easy flavorful squash casserole recipe perfect for a cozy meal Enjoy delicious comfort food with every bite
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 10 grams