Cheesy Squash

Cheesy squash is a comforting and delicious side dish that combines tender squash with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect addition to any meal. This easy-to-make dish uses fresh yellow squash or zucchini, which is baked to perfection and topped with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for extra flavor. The result is a warm, bubbly, and cheesy casserole that’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. The savory cheese complements the natural sweetness of the squash, creating a balanced and flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even on its own as a satisfying vegetarian option.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups yellow squash or zucchini, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Squash:
   • Slice the yellow squash or zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
   • Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Arrange half of the sliced squash in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the squash, spreading it evenly. Layer the remaining squash on top, then pour the rest of the cheese sauce over the top.
5. Add Topping (Optional):
   • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the casserole, then top with the breadcrumb mixture for a crunchy finish.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. If using the breadcrumb topping, it should be lightly toasted.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the cheesy squash cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.

Cheesy squash is a delightful and comforting dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. With its creamy cheese sauce and tender squash, this dish is a great way to enjoy vegetables in a flavorful and satisfying way.