Yellow Squash Casserole

Yellow Squash Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the creamy richness of cheese and the tender texture of fresh yellow squash. This casserole is not just for special occasions; it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy summer’s bounty. Perfectly suited for family gatherings, holidays, or as a comforting side at dinner, this recipe stands out with its layers of flavor and crispy topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar and parmesan creates a deliciously creamy texture that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: This casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes, making it suitable for any meal.
• Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it more than once!
• Seasonal Delight: Using fresh yellow squash makes this dish vibrant and full of flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, ensure you have the right tools on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick cooking spray
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• 13 by 9-inch baking dish
• Broiler (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy removal from the baking dish.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the squash evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 4 lbs. yellow squash (preferably small to medium), sliced into rounds about 1/3-inch thick
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup + 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs (divided)
• 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 2 Tbsp dried chives

For Cooking

• 3 Tbsp butter (divided)
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tsp)

Topping

• 1 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (divided)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Yellow Squash Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prepare it for the casserole.

Step 2: Boil the Squash

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and let it boil until nearly tender, about 5–6 minutes. Drain the squash in a colander and allow it to sit while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, stir together:
1. Sour cream
2. Egg
3. 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
4. Cheddar cheese
5. 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
6. Parsley
7. Chives

Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in your sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown and tender, about 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained squash to the sauté pan with onions. Pour in the sour cream mixture from earlier and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well coated, then transfer it into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Topping

While baking, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small mixing bowl. Stir in:
– The remaining 3/4 cup panko
– The remaining 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Toss until evenly coated.

Step 8: Finish Baking

After baking for 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle your topping evenly over it. Move the oven rack to the upper third of your oven and return the casserole for another bake of about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Step 9: Broil for Crispiness

Turn on your broiler setting briefly (about 1–2 minutes) to achieve a golden brown topping—watch closely so it doesn’t burn! Serve warm garnished with extra chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Yellow Squash Casserole!

How to Serve Yellow Squash Casserole

Yellow Squash Casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with various meals. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor can complement a wide range of main courses, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• The lightness of grilled chicken enhances the rich flavors of the casserole, offering a balanced meal.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables bring out the natural sweetness in the squash and add a colorful touch to your plate.

Accompany with Beef Tacos

• The hearty flavors of beef tacos are nicely offset by the creamy yellow squash, creating a satisfying combination.

Enjoy alongside Turkey Burgers

• Turkey burgers provide a lean protein option that works well with the savory notes of the casserole.

Complement with Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the casserole while providing extra nutrients.

Present with Quinoa Pilaf

• Quinoa pilaf offers a nutty flavor and texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft consistency of yellow squash casserole.

How to Perfect Yellow Squash Casserole

Creating the perfect Yellow Squash Casserole involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose fresh squash: Selecting small to medium yellow squash ensures tenderness and optimal flavor in your casserole.

• Don’t overcook: Boil the squash just until nearly tender; this prevents it from becoming mushy when baked.

• Season generously: Adding enough salt and pepper will enhance all the flavors in your casserole, making every bite delicious.

• Layer cheeses wisely: Mixing sharp cheddar and parmesan gives depth to the dish; sprinkle some on top for added texture.

• Use quality breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide that perfect crunchy topping, so choose a good brand for best results.

• Broil carefully: Keep an eye on your casserole under the broiler; it can brown quickly, but you want that golden finish!

Best Side Dishes for Yellow Squash Casserole

Pairing side dishes with Yellow Squash Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options to complement your dish:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add richness, making them a comforting sidekick.

2. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans offer a fresh crunch and vibrant color, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides an excellent contrast to the creamy casserole.

4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory notes of yellow squash while adding seasonal flair to your meal.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes balances out the savory aspects of the casserole perfectly.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, brightening up each bite alongside your warm casserole.

7. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds an earthy flavor that pairs well with cheesy dishes like this one.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans make for an attractive and hearty addition to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Yellow Squash Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Overcooked Squash: If you boil the squash for too long, it will become mushy. Aim for just tender, about 5-6 minutes, so it retains its shape.
• Skipping Seasoning: Bland casseroles can happen if you forget to season your mixture with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Not Draining Squash Properly: Leaving excess water from boiling can make your casserole watery. Let the squash drain well in a colander before mixing.
• Overloading on Cheese: While cheese adds flavor, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Neglecting the Topping: The crispy topping is essential for texture. Don’t skip this step; ensure you evenly distribute the panko mixture before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Yellow Squash Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Yellow Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Yellow Squash Casserole.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! You can use zucchini or a mix of summer squashes for variety.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat-based broth and use vegetable broth instead. The casserole remains delicious!

Can I prepare Yellow Squash Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

What can I serve with Yellow Squash Casserole?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or turkey, making it an excellent side for barbecues or family dinners.

Is Yellow Squash Casserole healthy?

With fresh ingredients and minimal fat, it’s a nutritious choice that still delivers great flavor!

Final Thoughts

Yellow Squash Casserole is not only tasty but also versatile. This comforting side dish captures the essence of summer squash beautifully while being simple to adapt based on your preferences. Feel free to customize it with different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste!