Get ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! Aunt Fanny's Squash Casserole is not just a side dish – it's a culinary journey that brings together the rustic charm of Southern cooking with a creamy, cheesy delight that's impossible to resist. Whether you're looking to impress your dinner guests or simply craving a comforting home-cooked meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create memories around the dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash the yellow squash thoroughly and slice into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Finely chop the onion into small, consistent pieces.
- In a large skillet, sauté the sliced squash and chopped onions over medium heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes tender and releases its moisture. Season with salt and pepper during cooking.
- Remove the squash and onion mixture from heat and drain any excess liquid to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed.
- Transfer the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs uniformly over the top of the casserole, creating a light, crispy topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish that showcases the classic comfort of Southern-style cooking.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Squash: Select young, firm yellow squash for the best texture and flavor. Avoid squash that looks overly large or has soft spots.
- Moisture Management: After sautéing, be sure to drain excess liquid from the squash to prevent a watery casserole. A quick pat with paper towels can help remove additional moisture.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting quality and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Breadcrumb Boost: For extra crunch, mix some grated Parmesan cheese into your breadcrumbs or add a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or parsley.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier. This also helps intensify the flavors.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add diced bell peppers or crispy bacon bits for additional flavor and texture variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 215kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 34mg
