Imagine a dish that transforms humble yellow squash into a decadent, golden-brown masterpiece that'll have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds. This Squash and Cheese Casserole isn't just another side dish—it's a creamy, crispy celebration of Southern home cooking that brings comfort and flavor together in one irresistible baking dish. Whether you're looking to impress your family or add a show-stopping side to your next gathering, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary game with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced yellow squash
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash the yellow squash thoroughly and dice into uniform small cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. This will help develop a deeper flavor.
- Add the diced squash to the skillet with the onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes tender but not mushy. Season with salt and pepper during cooking.
- Remove the squash and onion mixture from heat and drain any excess liquid to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs uniformly over the top of the casserole, creating a light, crispy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Squash: Select firm, bright yellow squash without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Moisture Management: Always drain excess liquid after cooking squash to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or a mix for unique flavor profiles.
- Breadcrumb Boost: For extra crunch, mix some grated parmesan into your breadcrumbs before topping.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Perfect Baking: Cover with foil for the first 25 minutes to prevent over-browning, then uncover to achieve a golden, crispy top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
