I am excited to share two of my favorite comfort food recipes with you today: easy cheesy squash casseroles! Whether you love yellow squash or zucchini, I have simple ways to make a warm, bubbly dish that is perfect for any meal.
Get ready to bake up some cheesy goodness that your family will ask for again and again. These recipes are straightforward and packed with flavor, making them ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
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Easy Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
This yellow squash casserole is a simple, creamy bake that brings a lot of comfort to the table. It features tender yellow squash in a rich cheese sauce, all topped with a crispy, golden crust.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Yellow Squash
- Fresh Yellow Squash: Pick firm, bright yellow squash. Slice them evenly so they cook at the same speed. This helps them cook through properly.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives the sauce its rich, tangy flavor. I recommend grating it yourself for the best melt and taste.
- Cracker Topping: Crushed buttery crackers add a nice crunch and extra flavor to the top of your casserole. It makes a beautiful golden crust.
What You Need for Yellow Squash Casserole
- 3 cups sliced yellow squash (about 3 medium)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
⏱️ Time: 45 Minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 Servings
How to Make Yellow Squash Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Squash
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Steam or lightly boil the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain them very well to avoid a watery casserole.
Step 2: Make Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking until the sauce is smooth and thick. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Gently combine the drained squash and onion with the cheese sauce in a large bowl. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
📝 Final Note
For an even richer taste, you can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to your cracker topping before baking. It adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole Recipe
My easy zucchini squash casserole is a fantastic way to use fresh zucchini from the garden. This recipe combines grated zucchini with a simple cheesy egg base for a fluffy, comforting side dish.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Zucchini Squash
- Grated Zucchini: Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchini. This stops your casserole from becoming watery and ensures a firm texture.
- Eggs as Binder: Eggs help hold the casserole together and give it a nice, light texture. They are key to the structure of this dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: A little Parmesan adds a salty, nutty bite that works well with the mild zucchini. It complements the cheddar beautifully.
What You Need for Zucchini Casserole
- 4 cups grated zucchini (about 2 large)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
⏱️ Time: 55 Minutes🍽️ Yields: 8 Servings
How to Make Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Zucchini
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much excess water as you can. This step is important for a firm casserole and prevents it from being soggy.
Step 2: Mix Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, chopped onion, eggs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Bake until Golden
Pour the zucchini mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set, golden brown on top, and bubbly around the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
📝 Final Note
You can add some finely chopped red bell pepper to the zucchini mix for extra color and a slight sweetness. This makes the dish even more appealing.
