This Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. With tasty yellow squash and zesty green chiles, it’s a perfect side for any meal.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! I love how it adds some fun flavors to our dinner table without a ton of fuss. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish. You want fresh, firm yellow squash. If you can’t find it, zucchini can be a decent alternative, giving a similar texture and taste.
Green Chiles: Diced green chiles add a delightful kick. I prefer using roasted chiles for a deeper flavor, but canned chiles are easy and accessible. Adjust the heat level by choosing mild or medium!
Cheeses: The mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a great creamy texture. You can substitute with other cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Mayonnaise: It adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute, giving a similar creaminess with less fat.
How Do I Get My Squash to Be Tender Without Being Watery?
It’s crucial to cook the squash properly to avoid excess moisture. Here’s what I do:
- Slice the squash thinly to help it cook evenly.
- Sauté it with onions over medium heat until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
- Make sure to drain any excess liquid after cooking; this helps keep the casserole from getting soggy.
Taking these steps will ensure a creamy, flavorful casserole without the unwanted wateriness! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup green chiles, diced (roasted or canned, mild or medium)
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For Creaminess:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Crunchy Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prep and then about 25-30 minutes to bake. All in all, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig into this creamy, cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. This will make your cleanup a breeze!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Sauté them until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them! Once they are good, drain any excess liquid to keep your casserole from getting soggy.
3. Mix It All Together:
In a big bowl, combine the sautéed squash and onion with the diced green chiles, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is mixed well.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheesy goodness! Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses so that they’re evenly spread throughout the mixture.
5. Pour and Spread:
Pour your delicious mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so that it cooks perfectly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Mix them until the crackers are coated. This will give your casserole a nice crunchy top!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Then, pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit, making it easier to scoop. Enjoy your delicious Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with zucchini if you prefer. Just ensure you slice it thinly for even cooking!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prep this casserole ahead of time! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Definitely! If you want a different flavor, you can use any cheese you enjoy. Pepper Jack is a great choice for added spice, or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep the total amount of cheese the same for best results!
