Creamy Cheddar & Squash Casserole
This Creamy Cheddar & Squash Casserole combines the earthy flavors of yellow squash and the sharpness of cheddar cheese into a deliciously comforting side dish. Perfect for potlucks or family dinners, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of squash while adding layers of flavor with onions, spices, and creamy milk. With a crispy Parmesan topping, this casserole is not just a vegetable dish; it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Serve it warm alongside grilled meats or as a hearty addition to any meal. Make this delightful Junior League recipe and share it with friends and family for a hearty taste of comfort food!
N/A
Servings
175
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
yellow squash
1.5 lbs (sliced)
onion
1 large (chopped)
sugar
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
0.5 teaspoon (none)
butter
to taste (softened)
eggs
4 (beaten)
shredded cheddar cheese
0.75 cup (none)
milk
0.5 cup (none)
bread crumbs
0.25 cup (none)
cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Parmesan cheese
to taste (grated)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large pot, combine the sliced yellow squash, chopped onion, sugar, and salt with enough water to cover. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the mixture well.
3
In a mixing bowl, mash the drained squash and onion mixture until desired consistency. Stir in the softened butter until fully incorporated.
4
Next, add the beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, bread crumbs, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are combined and create a creamy filling.
5
Spoon the mixture into a greased 8x8 baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
12.5g
Carbs
8.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheddar & Squash Casserole?
It is a comforting side dish that combines yellow squash, sharp cheddar cheese, and onions with a creamy egg and milk base, finished with a crispy Parmesan topping.
How long does it take to boil the squash?
The sliced yellow squash and chopped onion should be simmered in water for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until tender.
At what temperature should I bake the casserole?
The oven should be preheated and set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What size baking dish is recommended?
A greased 8x8 inch baking dish is required for this recipe.
How much yellow squash do I need?
The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of sliced yellow squash.
What kind of cheese is used in the filling?
The filling uses 0.75 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for a sharp and creamy flavor.
What is used for the casserole topping?
The top of the casserole is sprinkled generously with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe uses 4 beaten eggs to help bind the ingredients together.
Is there any spice in this squash casserole?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is added to provide a subtle hint of heat.
Do I need to mash the squash?
Yes, after boiling and draining the squash and onion mixture, you should mash it to your desired consistency.
What ingredients are boiled with the squash?
The squash is boiled along with chopped onion, one teaspoon of sugar, and half a teaspoon of salt.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
It should bake for 30 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and bubbly.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 175 calories per serving of this casserole.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, vegetable-based side dish with 8.75g of protein per serving.
How much fat is in this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains about 12.5 grams of carbohydrates.
Does the recipe contain bread crumbs?
Yes, 0.25 cups of bread crumbs are mixed into the filling to help with the texture.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe calls for one large onion, chopped; yellow or white onions work best.
How much milk is needed?
You will need 0.5 cups of milk for the creamy filling.
Can I use butter to taste?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding softened butter to taste into the mashed squash mixture.
Is this a good dish for family dinners?
Yes, it is specifically described as a family-friendly crowd-pleaser and a hearty comfort food.
Is this a Junior League recipe?
Yes, this specific recipe is highlighted as a delightful Junior League recipe.
Should the butter be softened?
Yes, using softened butter ensures it incorporates fully into the warm mashed squash.
Can I serve this with meat?
The recipe recommends serving it warm alongside grilled meats or as a hearty addition to any meal.
Does the squash need to be peeled?
The instructions specify slicing the squash, but peeling is optional as yellow squash skin is generally tender.
What gives the casserole its sweetness?
The natural sweetness of the squash is enhanced by the addition of a teaspoon of sugar during the boiling process.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this casserole consists of vegetables, dairy, and eggs, making it suitable for vegetarians.
Should I drain the squash after boiling?
Yes, it is crucial to drain the squash and onion mixture well before mashing to avoid a watery casserole.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 11 ingredients required to make this dish.
Is the Parmesan cheese mixed in or used as a topping?
The Parmesan cheese is used exclusively as a topping to create a golden, crispy crust.