Ah, the delightful and comforting Cheesy Squash Casserole! This dish holds a very special place in my heart, as it’s been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and even cozy weeknight dinners. I remember the first time I tasted it; I must have been around ten and at my aunt’s house. As soon as I took that first bite of creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender squash, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Trust me, it was love at first fork!
What I adore most about this casserole is its versatility. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies, and it can easily be adjusted to fit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re a squash fanatic or hesitant about reaching for your greens, this Cheesy Squash Casserole is sure to win everyone over!
What’s in Cheesy Squash Casserole?
Yellow Squash: The star of the show! Yellow squash adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely texture. I prefer using fresh squash when I can, but frozen works in a pinch too!
Zucchini: This vegetable pairs perfectly with yellow squash, lending its mild flavor and beautiful color. Plus, it cooks up just as nicely!
Onion: Chopped onion adds a deliciously savory base. I often choose yellow or sweet onions, as they balance the flavors perfectly.
Garlic: A clove or two of minced garlic will elevate the flavor, giving the casserole a warm, aromatic touch that’s simply irresistible.
Cheddar Cheese: The gooey goodness! I recommend using sharp cheddar for that bold flavor, but feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
Eggs: These act as a binder to hold everything together, ensuring that every bite is creamy and cohesive.
Breadcrumbs: A sprinkling of breadcrumbs on top adds a crunchy finish, creating that delightful contrast to the creamy texture underneath.
Is Cheesy Squash Casserole Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This casserole has some wonderful health perks, thanks to the star ingredients.
Yellow Squash and Zucchini: These veggies are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, making them great for maintaining healthy skin and immune function. Plus, they’re full of fiber, which helps keep the digestive system on track.
Onions and Garlic: Both of these ingredients are known for their antioxidant properties and can help support heart health. They add flavor and a range of health benefits to this comforting dish.
However, keep in mind that while this casserole can be nutritious, it does contain cheese and eggs. If you’re mindful of cholesterol or saturated fats, you can always swap out some ingredients for lower-fat options or use nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the calories!
Ingredients
– 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4 medium squash)
– 2 cups zucchini, sliced (about 2 medium zucchinis)
– 1 cup onion, chopped (about 1 medium onion)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for greasing the dish
*This recipe serves about 6-8 people.*
How to Make Cheesy Squash Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large casserole dish with olive oil or butter.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add the sliced yellow squash and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender but not mushy. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs. Once combined, mix in the sautéed veggies alongside 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is nicely coated.
5. Pour the cheesy squash mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for that lovely crunch!
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and a toothpick comes out clean!
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Dive in and enjoy the warm, cheesy deliciousness!
Gourmet Tips for Your Cheesy Squash Casserole
– **Mix it up:** Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or even mushrooms, to add more flavor and nutrients.
– **Cheesy variations:** Experiment with different cheeses – feta or goat cheese can add a unique twist!
– **Use fresh herbs:** Tossing in some fresh basil or parsley can brighten up the casserole.
– **Make ahead:** This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it!
I genuinely hope you give this Cheesy Squash Casserole a try! It’s the perfect comfort dish to share with family or enjoy on your own. And seriously, let me know how it turns out. Cooking is so much more fun when we share our experiences! Happy cooking!
