This Easy Kentucky Squash Casserole is a cozy dish that brings together tender squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s simply perfect for any meal!
I love how this casserole can be made ahead of time. It always gets rave reviews, and who can resist that golden, bubbly top? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. If you’re in a pinch, zucchini can work as a substitute. Just keep in mind it has a bit more water, so you may want to squeeze it dry before cooking.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, mild cheddar or even mozzarella would work well. Experiment with other cheeses like gouda for a twist!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These ingredients add creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. And if you don’t have mayo, using extra sour cream is fine too.
Saltine Crackers: They give a nice crunch, but if you don’t have them, breadcrumbs or crushed pretzels can replace them for that crispy topping. You can also use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option!
How Do I Avoid a Watery Casserole?
To keep your casserole from getting watery, it’s key to remove excess moisture from the squash. Here’s how:
- After boiling the squash and onions, drain really well. Let them sit in the strainer for a few minutes to get rid of more liquid.
- Once they cool, use a clean kitchen towel to press down and soak up more moisture. This will really help in achieving that perfect texture.
Taking these extra steps ensures your casserole is creamy, not soggy, making it much more enjoyable!
Easy Kentucky Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 3 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have this comforting casserole ready to serve in under an hour! Perfect for busy days or family gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9 inch casserole dish and butter it generously—you want to make sure nothing sticks!
2. Chop and Cook the Vegetables
Wash and slice those bright yellow squash and chop the onion. In a large pot, bring some water to a boil. Add in the sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook them until the squash is tender but not mushy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain well to get rid of any excess water, and press gently to remove moisture.
3. Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Stir everything gently until it’s well mixed and creamy!
4. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, take your crushed saltines (or breadcrumbs) and mix them with melted butter. This will give your casserole a nice, crunchy topping.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared casserole dish, smoothing it out evenly. Then sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs generously over the top.
6. Bake to Perfection
Put your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a bubbly filling—yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. This dish is perfect as a side or even as a main course, and it’s sure to bring comfort to your table!
And there you have it! A warm and tasty Kentucky Squash Casserole ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Perfect for any gathering or a simple dinner at home!
FAQ for Easy Kentucky Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, you can easily substitute with zucchini. Just remember, zucchini has more moisture, so make sure to drain it well after cooking to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking point, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick heating.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian or Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers in place of the traditional saltines. Enjoy without compromising on taste!
