Special Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish that shines with the natural sweetness of squash paired with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping. This dish brings together tender squash, sautéed onions, and a rich cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s ideal for holiday feasts, potlucks, or as a cozy family dinner side. The casserole offers layers of texture and taste that balance the creaminess with a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it a crowd-pleaser and a go-to recipe for showcasing fresh, seasonal squash.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash and chopped onion, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess liquid.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed squash and onions with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This Special Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish.
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Special Squash Casserole at your next gathering!
