This Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole is a tasty dish featuring soft yellow squash and zesty green chiles. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for sharing!
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just mix everything, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a warm, cheesy hug on your plate. It’s a hit at family dinners! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! It’s tender and adds a nice texture. If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini is a great substitute, offering a similar taste and feel.
Green Chiles: Canned diced green chiles give that pop of flavor. If you prefer fresh, use about 2-3 fresh green chiles, roasted and diced. For a milder flavor, skip them entirely or substitute with bell peppers.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar provides a sharp taste. I love using sharp or medium cheddar for more flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some heat!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create a creamy base for the casserole. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Casserole?
The key to a smooth casserole is in the cooking of the squash and onions. Cooking them before mixing helps release their moisture and prevents the casserole from becoming watery. Here’s how to ensure it turns out right:
- Cook squash and onions until just tender; it helps if you drain any excess liquid after.
- Combine all ingredients gently so that the squash retains some nice texture.
- Don’t skip the 5-7 minutes of cooking; it makes a huge difference!
Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you can get it ready in less than an hour! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty side dish for gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook the Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. If there’s any excess liquid in the pan, drain it out so your casserole doesn’t get watery.
3. Mix All the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the diced green chiles, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well blended.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Grease a casserole dish and pour the mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so it cooks through nicely.
5. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until it’s crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.
6. Bake:
Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, serve it warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness. Perfect with a salad or your favorite main dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Zucchini for Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and taste. Just slice it the same way as you would the yellow squash, and follow the recipe as usual.
Is It Possible to Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
This casserole is already vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure your crackers are vegetarian, and you’re all set for a delicious veggie dish!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You may want to cover it in the oven to keep the topping from over-browning.
Can I Use Fresh Green Chiles Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! Use about 2-3 fresh green chiles, roasted and diced for a nice flavor boost. Just be mindful of the heat level, as fresh chiles can vary in spiciness!
