Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe That Will Warm Your Heart Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, satisfying dish that’s both simple to prepare and irresistibly tasty, you have just found the perfect solution in this Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe That Will Warm Your Heart Recipe. This casserole is a glorious celebration of tender yellow squash combined with the richness of cheddar, the creaminess of sour cream and mayonnaise, and a delectably crunchy, buttery topping. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and comes together quickly enough to fit into any busy weeknight dinner plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just the right ingredients is key to nailing this dish, but don’t worry—each one is straightforward and familiar. They all play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this casserole so memorable.

• 4 cups yellow squash, sliced: Choose fresh, firm squash for the best flavor and tenderness after cooking.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: This adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the squash beautifully.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the casserole a rich, savory punch and melts to create gooey goodness.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Provides a creamy texture and a gentle tang that brightens the dish.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps bind all the ingredients together seamlessly.
• 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a natural binder to keep the casserole from falling apart.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and an aromatic touch without overpowering.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistibly crisp and golden topping everyone loves.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds a luscious buttery finish to the topping and helps it brown beautifully in the oven.

How to Make Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe That Will Warm Your Heart Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or something similar in size to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick when it’s baked to golden perfection.

Step 2: Sauté the Squash and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, toss your sliced yellow squash and chopped onion with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash softens and the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Drain any excess liquid you might get—this step is important to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients

Transfer your cooked squash and onions to a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly so each bite is packed with rich, creamy, savory goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to set the stage for an even bake and a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping

In a small bowl, stir together your crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this golden mixture right over the top of the casserole. This topping will provide that signature crunch and buttery aroma that is simply irresistible.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for a beautifully browned top with bubbling edges—that’s your cue the casserole is perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.

Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, give your casserole about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This helps it set up for better slicing and serving, plus it lets all those amazing flavors meld together even more.

How to Serve Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe That Will Warm Your Heart Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this hearty casserole, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. The fresh green herbs add a pop of color and a burst of brightness that balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal veggies can make your meal feel complete without overshadowing the main star. For heartier occasions, roasted chicken or grilled pork chops make perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins as a charming side or starter. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of cooked rice or warm quinoa for an easy, complete vegetarian main dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover squash casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover tightly to keep moisture out and flavors fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through and the topping crisp and golden again. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven is best for preserving texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash in this casserole?

Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional here, zucchini or a mix of summer squash varieties work beautifully. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid after cooking to prevent sogginess.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can swap out the cheddar cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, and vegan mayo works well to maintain creaminess.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with gluten-free crackers or panko. The casserole will still have that lovely crunchy topping you’ve been craving.

What is the best way to slice the squash for this dish?

Try to slice the squash uniformly about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking. If the slices vary greatly in size, cooking times may be inconsistent, and the texture may differ.

How can I add extra flavor to this squash casserole?

Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cooking squash and onions, or mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. A handful of cooked bacon bits also adds a delicious smoky note.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing quite like the cozy, homey feeling this Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe That Will Warm Your Heart Recipe brings to your table. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, it is sure to become a favorite thanks to its creamy, crunchy, comforting nature and ease of preparation. Give this recipe a try and see how it effortlessly becomes a staple you’ll reach for time and time again.

Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe That Will Warm Your Heart Recipe

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4 from 83 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This deliciously easy squash casserole recipe combines tender sautéed yellow squash and onions with creamy cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a buttery cracker topping. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting side dish perfect for any meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4–5 medium squash)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

Dairy & Eggs

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg, beaten

Seasoning & Toppings

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch or similarly sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion with a pinch of salt for 8–10 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, the beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, well-seasoned filling.
4. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly for consistent cooking and presentation.
5. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs with the melted butter until they are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to form a crunchy, golden topping.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating it is cooked through.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and enhance flavors.

Notes

• To reduce moisture in the casserole, be sure to drain the cooked squash and onions well before mixing other ingredients.
• You can substitute the Ritz crackers with buttery breadcrumbs for a different texture.
• This dish can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American