This Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that highlights fresh summer vegetables. Made with tender yellow squash and green zucchini, the vegetables are thinly sliced and layered with sautéed onions, garlic, and a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and Parmesan.
The recipe is straightforward and perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. It offers a delicious twist on classic zucchini and squash casseroles, making it a great addition to your collection of summer squash casserole recipes.
Overview of the Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole
The Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole is a delightful dish that showcases the flavors of fresh summer vegetables.
This casserole features layers of vibrant yellow squash and green zucchini, creating a visually appealing and delicious meal.
With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it stands out among summer squash casserole recipes.
Ingredients That Shine
At the heart of this Cheesy Zucchini Squash Casserole are the fresh ingredients that bring it to life.
Thinly sliced zucchini and yellow squash form the base, while sautéed onions and garlic add depth of flavor.
The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich, melty topping that is hard to resist.
For a crispy finish, buttery breadcrumbs are sprinkled on top, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
Fresh herbs can be added for garnish, enhancing the dish’s appeal and freshness.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing the Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing the dish to bake evenly.
Sautéing the onions and garlic in butter adds a wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen, setting the stage for a comforting meal.
Once the vegetables are prepared, they are combined with the creamy mixture and layered in a greased baking dish.
This assembly process is quick, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Baking to Perfection
The casserole is baked until the top is golden brown and bubbling, which typically takes about 30-35 minutes.
This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to achieve that perfect melt.
The result is a beautifully baked dish that is both inviting and hearty.
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
This Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread, making it a complete meal.
It’s also a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or as part of a larger spread at gatherings.
The leftovers, if there are any, can be enjoyed the next day, making it a versatile option for meal prep.
This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a touch of warmth and comfort to the table.
Why This Casserole is a Must-Try
The Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of summer produce.
With its creamy texture and crispy topping, it offers a delightful twist on traditional zucchini casserole recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to please.
Incorporating this recipe into your collection of baked squash and zucchini recipes will undoubtedly elevate your culinary repertoire.
It’s a dish that embodies the essence of summer while providing a comforting experience for all who enjoy it.
Easy Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole
This casserole features layers of zucchini and squash combined with a light cream base and topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. The dish takes about 50 minutes to prepare and bake, serving 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or light cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Layer the Casserole: In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and squash with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well.
- Assemble: In a greased baking dish, layer the vegetable mixture evenly. Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Squash and Zucchini Casserole warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g