Yellow Squash Casserole

Made with tender yellow squash, a cheesy, creamy coating, and finished with crispy toasted panko breadcrumbs, Yellow Squash Casserole is a delicious homestyle side dish perfect for holidays. This recipe is not only a fantastic way to use up the abundance of summertime squash but also an inviting addition to any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep work, this casserole is great for busy cooks.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses creates a rich and creamy flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts, this casserole complements a variety of main dishes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh yellow squash and herbs, it’s a tasty way to incorporate vegetables into your meals.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings or leftovers!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process for your Yellow Squash Casserole, gather the essential tools that will make your experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Saute pan or deep skillet
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A 13 by 9-inch baking dish is perfect for evenly cooking and serving your casserole.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the squash until tender without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before baking.

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 breadcrumbs (divided)
• 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 2 Tbsp dried chives
• 3 Tbsp butter (divided)
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 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.
Boil for about 5 – 6 minutes until nearly tender.
Drain the squash in a colander and set aside to ensure it drains well.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base

In a mixing bowl:
Stir together sour cream, egg, 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, half of the parmesan cheese (1/2 cup), parsley, and chives.
Set this mixture aside while you prepare the onions.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a saute pan over medium heat:
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
Add chopped onion and sauté until slightly golden brown and tender (about 7 minutes).
Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute before removing from heat.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In the pan with sautéed onions:
* Add the boiled squash along with the sour cream mixture.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Toss everything to ensure even coating before transferring it into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and cover with foil.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Topping

While it’s baking:
* In a small mixing bowl, melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter.
* Add in the remaining panko breadcrumbs (3/4 cup) and half cup parmesan cheese; toss to combine evenly.

Step 8: Final Bake

After removing the covered casserole from the oven:
* Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
* Move your oven rack to the upper third position.
* Return casserole to bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese melts and casserole is heated through.

Step 9: Broil for Crispiness

Turn on your oven broiler:
* Broil briefly (about 1 – 2 minutes) just until topping turns golden brown—watch closely as it can brown quickly!

Serve warm garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this delightful Yellow Squash Casserole as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Yellow Squash Casserole

Yellow Squash Casserole is a delightful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a weeknight dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the creamy texture of the squash casserole perfectly, adding protein and flavor.

Alongside Beef Roast

• A savory beef roast paired with yellow squash casserole creates a comforting meal, ideal for special occasions.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• This casserole makes an excellent addition to holiday tables, providing a rich, cheesy option that guests will love.

With Fresh Salad

• A refreshing green salad can balance the richness of the casserole, offering a light and healthy contrast.

Paired with Cornbread

• Sweet cornbread adds another layer of flavor and texture, making for a delicious Southern-style meal.

For Brunch Buffets

• Serve yellow squash casserole at brunch gatherings alongside scrambled eggs and fruit for a satisfying spread.

How to Perfect Yellow Squash Casserole

Perfecting your Yellow Squash Casserole can elevate its taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out great every time.

• Use fresh squash: Fresh yellow squash enhances flavor and texture. Look for firm squash without blemishes.
• Don’t overcook the squash: Boil just until tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy squash in your casserole.
• Layer flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic brings out their sweetness. This step adds depth to your dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference.
• Broil at the end: Broiling briefly gives your topping a perfect golden brown color and crunchy texture.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps set the layers for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Yellow Squash Casserole

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Yellow Squash Casserole.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil adds color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries provide a fun finger food option that complements the casserole’s creaminess.
3. Classic Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the soft textures of yellow squash casserole.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting combo with this cheesy dish.
5. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots bring brightness to your meal, balancing the savory flavors of the casserole.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while keeping your meal feeling healthy and balanced.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an eye-catching side that’s also filling.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is perfect for summer meals, providing sweetness that pairs nicely with cheesy dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Yellow Squash Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the squash: Boiling the squash for too long can make it mushy. Aim for just 5-6 minutes until nearly tender.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the mixture with salt and pepper can lead to a bland casserole. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Not draining properly: Failing to drain the boiled squash can result in excess water, making your casserole watery. Ensure it’s well-drained before mixing.
• Ignoring the baking times: Baking for either too long or too little can impact texture. Follow the instructions closely for best results.
• Forgetting about topping: Skipping the toasted panko topping can mean missing out on that delightful crunch. Don’t forget this step for added texture!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Yellow Squash Casserole

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Yellow Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Yellow Squash Casserole?

Yellow Squash Casserole is a creamy side dish made with tender yellow squash, cheese, and crispy toppings, perfect for gatherings.

Can I use other types of squash?

Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini or a mix of summer squashes if you prefer.

How do I customize my Yellow Squash Casserole?

Feel free to add different cheeses, spices, or vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Final Thoughts

Yellow Squash Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows for easy customization based on your preferences. Whether served at holidays or as a comforting weeknight side dish, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!