This light and tasty casserole is made with yellow squash and zesty green chiles. It’s baked until golden, making it a colorful side dish for any meal.
Honestly, who knew veggies could taste this good? I love serving it with my favorite grilled chicken. It’s an easy way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This vegetable is the star of the dish. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too. It has a similar texture and flavor, so no worries if you need to swap.
Green Chiles: I typically use mild green chiles for just a hint of spice, but if you prefer more heat, feel free to use hot green chiles. Canned chiles save time, but fresh roasted chiles can add a robust flavor.
Onion: Using yellow onion is great for this recipe as it caramelizes nicely. If you’re out of onions, try shallots or even leeks for a different flavor profile.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can use Monterrey Jack or pepper jack if you’re looking for more creaminess or heat.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can replace both for a similar tangy taste. This also makes it a bit lighter!
How Do I Get My Squash Just Right for the Casserole?
Cooking the squash properly is key for a delicious casserole. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the yellow squash evenly, so it cooks consistently.
- Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter until just tender (about 5-7 minutes). This helps remove excess moisture and prevents a soggy casserole.
- Ensure to season lightly with salt and pepper during cooking. It enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Following this will give you perfectly cooked squash that blends beautifully with the other ingredients in the casserole! Enjoy making this dish! 🥒🍽️
Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup green chiles, diced (mild or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Cheesy Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a delightful side dish for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your casserole.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, add your sliced yellow squash and chopped onions. Sauté them together until they’re nice and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their flavors.
3. Mix It All Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the diced green chiles, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until well mixed. Give it a little taste and add more seasoning if you like!
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a greased baking dish, about 9×9 inches in size, and pour the cheesy vegetable mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
5. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This will create a delicious crunchy topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and bubbly filling!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you feel fancy, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole is ready to be served hot! Enjoy it as a tasty side or make it the star of the meal!
Happy cooking! 🌟
FAQ for Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen squash completely and drain any excess water before sautéing to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It will give the same tangy flavor while adding extra protein!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through.
