Cheesy Squash Delight is a dish that holds a special place in my heart. When I was young, my grandmother used to make it for our family gatherings. The aroma of tender yellow squash and savory onions would fill the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere. I can still picture the golden-brown, crispy topping that made Cheesy Squash Delight irresistible. Every time I prepare it, I remember those joyful moments spent with loved ones, gathered around the table, enjoying a comforting meal.
A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Making Cheesy Squash Delight is easy and fun. I start by gathering fresh ingredients: yellow squash, sweet onions, and, of course, plenty of cheddar cheese. The first step is to slice the squash and chop the onions. I heat them in a skillet with a little water until they become tender. This part always makes me smile because the colors brighten up my kitchen. Next, I crush buttery round crackers and mix them with shredded cheese. Combining the cracker mixture with the squash and onion creates a creamy filling that smells heavenly. Each layer brings me closer to that delicious, finished dish.
The Magic of Baking
Once everything is combined, I pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining crackers and cheese on top. The final touch is a drizzle of melted butter, which helps achieve that crispy finish. As the Cheesy Squash Delight bakes in the oven, the aroma wafts through my home, drawing my family to the kitchen. It’s like a warm hug, wrapping us in comfort and nostalgia. After about 25 minutes, I take it out, and the golden-brown topping glistens with perfection. It’s hard to resist digging in right away, but I always wait a few minutes for it to cool.
Cheesy Squash Delight has become a staple in our family meals. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole never fails to impress. I love how versatile it is; sometimes, I add different veggies or spices to mix things up. Each time I serve it, I see the joy on my family’s faces as they savor every bite. For me, Cheesy Squash Delight is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of love, laughter, and the comfort of home.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Cheesy Squash Delight
- Flavor Enhancement: Consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the creamy mixture for an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, creating a balanced meal. Consider a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish.
- Additional Ingredients: For added texture and nutrients, you can incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper before baking.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to maintain the crispy topping, or microwave it for a quicker option.
Cheesy Squash Delight
Dive into the rich flavors of our Easy Cheesy Squash Delight! This mouthwatering casserole blends tender squash with savory onions, enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a crunchy cracker layer. Ideal for both side dishes and vegetarian mains, it’s a versatile favorite for family dinners, potlucks, and festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll achieve a golden-brown perfection that’s sure to impress. Embrace the comfort and deliciousness that makes this dish a standout in any meal rotation!
4
servings20
minutes30
minutes224
kcal50
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Vegetables
2 cups thinly sliced yellow squash
1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion
- Binding Agents
18 buttery round crackers crushed
3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Creamy Mixture
1 large egg lightly beaten
1/2 cup whole milk
- Flavor Enhancers
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Topping
17 buttery round crackers crushed
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
- Alternative Ingredients:
Yellow Squash: Zucchini can be used as a direct substitute.
Buttery Round Crackers: Gluten-free crackers for those with gluten intolerance.
Cheddar Cheese: Vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option.
Whole Milk: Almond milk or other plant-based milks for lactose-free preference.
Eggs: Flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement for vegan diets.
Butter: Coconut oil or vegan margarine for a dairy-free substitute.
Sweet Onion: Red onion can be used if sweet onion is unavailable.
Directions
- Preparation: Begin by gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the vegetables. In a large skillet, combine the sliced squash and chopped sweet onion. Add 1/4 cup of water, cover the pan, and cook over medium heat until the vegetables become tender, approximately 5 minutes. Once tender, drain any excess liquid and transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl to cool.
- Creating the Cracker Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together 18 crushed buttery crackers and 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir half of this mixture into the cooled squash and onion, ensuring the ingredients are well combined. For an extra cheesy flavor, you can reserve some additional cheese to sprinkle on top if desired. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and 1/2 cup of milk. Pour this mixture into the squash and cracker blend, stirring thoroughly to incorporate all elements.
- Assembling the Casserole: Add 2 tablespoons of melted butter to the mixture, followed by 3/4 teaspoon of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cracker and cheese mixture over the top of the casserole. Dot the surface with 1 tablespoon of melted butter to enhance the golden-brown finish during baking.
- Baking: Place the prepared dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top turns lightly browned and crispy.
- Serving: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Squash Delight hot as a comforting main course or a savory side dish.
Equipment
- large skillet
- Baking Dish
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- spoon or spatula
- oven
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 224kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 68mg
- Sodium: 469mg
- Potassium: 227mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 5IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQs- Cheesy Squash Delight
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini for yellow squash, or add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli for additional nutrition and flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crackers?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free crackers as a substitute for the buttery round crackers. Just ensure the rest of the ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute cheddar cheese with vegan cheese alternatives, use almond milk or any plant-based milk instead of whole milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
Can I freeze Cheesy Squash Delight?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
