Cheesy Squash Casserole
Cheesy Squash Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of squash with rich, creamy cheese. It’s a great way to make vegetables shine at the dinner table, and it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty side dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s easy to prepare and has a wonderful combination of textures with the softness of the squash and the crispiness of the topping. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies into your meal!
How to Make Cheesy Squash Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 3 medium squash)
- 2 cups sliced zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (optional topping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion until it’s soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until aromatic.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then mix in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese; stir until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.
- Season your sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika if you like a little kick.
- In a large bowl, combine your sliced squash and zucchini, then pour the cheese sauce over the veggies, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top, followed by breadcrumbs or crushed cracker crumbs if you’re using them.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before diving in!
How to Serve Cheesy Squash Casserole
Serve this casserole hot as a side dish with your favorite main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as part of a vegetarian meal.
How to Store Cheesy Squash Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Squash Casserole
- Don’t overcook the squash and zucchini before mixing them into the casserole. They will soften more while baking.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Variation
You can switch up the cheese by using mozzarella or a blend of different cheeses. Adding herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen squash and zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen squash and zucchini. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish the night before, cover it, and place it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Is this casserole suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this cheesy squash casserole is a great vegetarian option packed with flavor and nutrients from the veggies!
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