This colorful casserole features tender yellow squash and zesty green chiles, all mixed together with cheesy goodness. It’s super easy to make and perfect for any meal!
Honestly, I love how this dish brightens up the table! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Trust me, there won’t be any leftovers when I serve it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This recipe shines with fresh yellow squash, but zucchini can be a great substitute if that’s what you have on hand. They offer a slightly different flavor but still work well in a casserole.
Green Chiles: Canned green chiles add flavor, but you can use fresh diced jalapeños for more heat. If you want to skip chiles entirely, try adding diced bell peppers for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a punch of flavor, but you can swap it for Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese works too if you’re keeping it plant-based!
Crackers: I prefer buttery crackers like Ritz for that crunch, but you can substitute with crushed cornflakes or even breadcrumbs for a different texture on top.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Squash is Cooked Perfectly?
When cooking squash, it’s key to not overcook it in the skillet, as it will cook more in the oven. Here’s a little guide to help you:
- Slice your squash evenly for uniform cooking.
- Sauté on medium heat just until it starts to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat when it’s bright in color, but still slightly firm—this helps it retain some bite in the casserole.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked squash that complements the creamy filling wonderfully. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus around 30 minutes of baking time. So in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to prepare and enjoy this delicious casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a medium-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This brings out its natural sweetness!
3. Cook the Squash:
Add the sliced yellow squash to the skillet with the onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the squash is slightly softened but still has a little crunch. Then, remove it from the heat.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion, diced green chiles, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended together.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Carefully pour the squash mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until they are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a delicious crunch!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the topping has turned golden brown.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. If you’d like, sprinkle the top with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your delicious casserole, serve warm, and enjoy the delightful flavors of yellow squash and green chiles!
This Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole is not just tasty but also an easy dish to prepare. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
FAQ for Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is recommended, zucchini makes a great substitute. Just keep the cooking time the same, and you’ll enjoy a similar texture and flavor.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to give your casserole a kick, try adding more diced green chiles or some chopped jalapeños. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy touch!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the squash mixture and assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through.
