Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite fall dish – Cheesy Squash Casserole! This comforting meal holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners gathered around the table. My grandma used to whip this up whenever squash was in season, filling the house with the most delicious aroma that could make anyone’s mouth water. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying — like a warm hug from the inside!
What I love most about this casserole is how it celebrates those underappreciated squash varieties. The blend of flavors and textures is just heavenly, not to mention it’s so easy to throw together! I swear, every time I make it, I can’t help but smile, thinking of those sweet moments shared with loved ones over a hot casserole dish. And now, I’m excited to share this wonderful recipe with you!
What’s in Cheesy Squash Casserole?
Now, let’s break down the magic ingredients that transform humble squash into a gooey, cheesy delight.
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the show! It’s tender, mild, and gets perfectly soft when baked. If I’m in a pinch, I sometimes mix in zucchini for added color and flavor.
Onion: A touch of sautéed onion adds depth and sweetness. I prefer using a yellow onion for its balance of sweetness and acidity — it just complements the squash beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: The ultimate cheesy goodness! A sharp cheddar works wonders, bringing in that tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the dish.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds a luscious, creamy texture. You can opt for a low-fat version if you’re looking to lighten things up or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Breadcrumbs: For that crispy topping that adds texture and contrast to the soft casserole underneath. I like to use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Butter: A little melted butter not only helps in binding the breadcrumbs but infuses that rich, buttery flavor into every bite!
Is Cheesy Squash Casserole Good for You?
What’s awesome about this Cheesy Squash Casserole is that it’s not just comfort food; it also packs some nutritional benefits!
Yellow Squash: This delightful veggie is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, which are great for your skin and immune system—think of it as a delicious way to get your veggies in.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese can be indulgent, it’s also a source of protein and calcium. Moderation is key here; these nutrients will help keep you strong and your bones healthy.
That said, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to look for reduced-sodium cream soup and cheese options. And remember, serving this luscious casserole with a side of greens can balance out the meal beautifully!
Ingredients for Cheesy Squash Casserole
This tasty casserole serves about 6 people, perfect for gatherings or meal prepping throughout the week.
– 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup (about 10.5 oz)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned)
– ¼ cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cheesy Squash Casserole?
Alright, let’s dive into the steps to create this cheesy goodness:
1. **Preheat your oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the squash:** In a medium pot of boiling water, briefly cook the sliced yellow squash for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. **Sauté the onion:** In a pan over medium heat, melt a little butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it’s translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
4. **Combine ingredients:** In a large bowl, mix together the sautéed onions, drained squash, cheddar cheese, and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Transfer to a baking dish:** Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. **Prepare the topping:** In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this right over the squash mixture in the baking dish.
7. **Bake:** Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. **Cool and serve:** Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. Those cheesy ribbons when you scoop it out? Absolutely glorious!
Serving Suggestions & Tips for Cheesy Squash Casserole
Want to make this dish extra special? Here are some fun ideas! You can add cooked crumbled bacon or sausage to the squash mixture for some smoky flavor. If you’re feeling green, throw in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some roasted veggies, making it a great side for grilled meats or fish too!
And let’s not forget: leftovers, if you have any, are even better the next day! Just reheat and enjoy that cheesy goodness all over again.
So there you have it, my wonderful friends! I hope you get the chance to try this Cheesy Squash Casserole — it’s more than just a recipe, it’s a little piece of my heart served in a dish. Let me know your thoughts once you do; I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!
