Summer squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is perfect for summer cooking. It is low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your diet. One delicious way to enjoy summer squash is in a casserole. This summer squash casserole recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. It is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious summer squash casserole that is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients for Summer Squash Casserole
- 2 lbs (about 4 medium) summer squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
How to Make Summer Squash Casserole
Preparing the Squash Mixture:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Squash and Onion:
- In a large skillet, sauté the sliced squash and chopped onion over medium heat until they are tender, about 10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash mixture with sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix until well combined.
Assembling and Baking the Casserole:
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Spread the squash mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the squash mixture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the summer squash casserole hot, as a delicious and healthy side dish.
About the Main Ingredients
Summer Squash:
Summer squash, such as yellow squash and zucchini, is the star ingredient in this casserole. It is a versatile vegetable that is mild in flavor and pairs well with a variety of seasonings and other ingredients.
Onion and Garlic:
Onion and garlic add savory depth of flavor to the casserole. They are sautéed with the squash to enhance their flavors and ensure they are fully cooked.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise:
Sour cream and mayonnaise add creaminess to the casserole and help bind the ingredients together. They also add richness and flavor to the dish.
Cheeses:
Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese add a rich and cheesy flavor to the casserole. They melt into the squash mixture, creating a creamy and delicious filling.
Breadcrumbs:
Breadcrumbs are mixed with melted butter to create a crunchy topping for the casserole. They add texture and a buttery flavor to the dish.
Summer squash casserole is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is perfect for summer. It is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and cheeses. Enjoy this casserole as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or as a main dish for a vegetarian meal.
