This squash casserole is the ultimate comfort food, with tender squash, creamy sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese, all topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb layer. The perfect combination of savory and crunchy!
You can easily adjust this dish to suit your preferences—try adding extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or even throw in some cooked chicken for a heartier meal. The rich, cheesy flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this casserole will never disappoint.
Full Recipe:
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2 medium yellow squash, sliced
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1/2 cup onion, chopped
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1 tablespoon butter
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onions and squash and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the squash softens and the onions are translucent.
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Season the squash mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese until well combined.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the breadcrumbs.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Prep Time:Â 15 minutes |Â Cooking Time:Â 30 minutes |Â Total Time:Â 45 minutes
Kcal:Â 250 kcal |Â Servings:Â 4 servings
What Makes Squash Casserole So Delicious?
What truly sets squash casserole apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The squash becomes tender and almost melts into the cheesy mixture, while the sour cream adds richness and creaminess to the dish. The sharp cheddar cheese offers a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the mild squash, while the mozzarella cheese brings in a delicious meltiness. Finally, the topping of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs adds a crispy crunch, creating a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling below. This texture contrast is what makes squash casserole so addictive and comforting.
Health Benefits of Squash
Squash is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal. This vegetable is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, all of which contribute to a healthy immune system, strong bones, and improved digestion. Squash is also low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Plus, it’s high in antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Customizing Your Squash Casserole
One of the best things about squash casserole is that it’s easily customizable. The base of the recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a more vegetable-forward dish, consider adding additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole. These vegetables blend well with squash and can give your casserole even more flavor and texture.
If you want to turn this casserole into a main dish, you can easily add protein such as cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon. This makes it a more filling option that can be enjoyed as a hearty dinner. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and focus on the cheese and vegetables. You could also experiment with adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.
How to Make Squash Casserole Ahead of Time
Squash casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. If you’re hosting a gathering or need a meal prepped for later in the week, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives you less to worry about on the day you’re serving it.
To prepare the casserole ahead of time, follow the recipe as usual but stop just before baking. Cover the casserole dish with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake the casserole as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed, since it’s starting from a chilled state.
Why Choose This Squash Casserole for Your Family
Squash casserole is an excellent choice for family meals, as it’s easy to make, filling, and packed with nutrients. It’s the kind of dish that appeals to both adults and kids, as it’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Plus, the casserole format makes it easy to prepare for a crowd, and leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) can be enjoyed for days.
Additionally, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals who want to make something healthy but don’t have much time to cook. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for home cooks of all skill levels. The whole family will love it, and you’ll love how quick and simple it is to prepare.
Serving Suggestions
Squash casserole is the perfect side dish to complement a variety of main courses. It pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, or beef. You can also serve it alongside a hearty salad or alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, try serving squash casserole with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.
If you’re serving the casserole as a main course, pair it with a side of crusty bread or a light soup. Its rich and creamy texture also makes it a great accompaniment to dishes with a bit of heat, such as spicy chicken or barbecue. The casserole’s subtle flavor profile allows it to complement a wide range of dishes without overpowering them.
Why You Should Make This Squash Casserole Today
If you’ve never tried squash casserole, now is the perfect time to start. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation. Plus, it’s easy to make, with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
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Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this squash casserole recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s the perfect side dish to serve for holidays, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. With its cheesy, creamy filling and crispy topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Conclusion
Squash casserole is a timeless dish that is simple to make yet full of flavor. From its creamy texture to its crunchy topping, this recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes, whether you want to add extra veggies, meat, or herbs. The dish is also a great way to incorporate squash into your meals, making it a healthy and delicious option for the whole family.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, squash casserole should be on your list. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, main course, or making it ahead of time for a busy week, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Give it a try today, and you’ll quickly see why it’s such a beloved comfort food for so many.