Ultimate Cheesy Squash Casserole
Indulge in this Ultimate Cheesy Squash Casserole, a heartwarming dish that beautifully combines the subtle sweetness of fresh zucchini and yellow squash with the creamy richness of American cheese and a hint of thyme. The standout feature of this casserole is the delightful corn bread flavor from the Jiffy corn muffin mix, creating a satisfying texture that's both comforting and delicious. While the preparation may take a little time, the incredible taste is well worth the effort. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is a celebration of seasonal vegetables and cheesy goodness that will leave everyone wanting a second helping!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
4 1/2 cups (diced)
Yellow Squash
4 1/2 cups (diced)
Yellow Onions
1 1/2 cups (chopped)
Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
1 (8 ounce) box (prepared as directed on the box)
Butter
3/4 cup (unsalted)
Processed American Cheese
8 ounces (diced (store brand, not Velveeta))
Chicken Bouillon Cubes
3 (crushed)
Garlic
1 teaspoon (minced)
Salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Ground Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Thyme
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
Parsley
1 tablespoon (fresh, chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 13''x11'' baking pan with non-stick spray.
2
Prepare the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix according to the package directions and set aside to cool.
3
In a large saucepan, combine the diced zucchini and yellow squash with enough water to cover. Cook over medium-low heat until the squash is tender, then remove from heat.
4
Drain the squash mixture, reserving one cup of the cooking water for later use.
5
In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
6
Stir in the minced garlic, salt, ground pepper, thyme, and parsley. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
7
Add the crushed chicken bouillon cubes to the mixture, stirring until fully dissolved.
8
Incorporate the drained squash into the onion mixture, followed by the diced American cheese. Stir until the cheese begins to melt slightly.
9
Crumble the prepared corn muffin mix into the squash mixture, then pour in the reserved cup of cooking water. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
10
Transfer the squash mixture into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly.
11
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes.
12
Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and form a delicious crust.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Cheesy Squash Casserole?
The Ultimate Cheesy Squash Casserole is a comforting side dish that combines zucchini and yellow squash with American cheese and Jiffy corn muffin mix for a unique corn bread flavor.
What are the main vegetables used in this recipe?
The primary vegetables are 4 1/2 cups of diced zucchini and 4 1/2 cups of diced yellow squash.
What type of cheese should I use for this casserole?
The recipe specifically calls for 8 ounces of diced processed American cheese, noting to use a store brand rather than Velveeta.
Can I use Velveeta instead of American cheese?
The recipe recommends using store-brand processed American cheese instead of Velveeta for the best results.
How do I get the corn bread flavor in this dish?
The corn bread flavor comes from incorporating one 8-ounce box of prepared Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix into the squash mixture.
What size baking pan is needed?
You will need a 13x11 inch baking pan greased with non-stick spray.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Do I need to pre-cook the squash?
Yes, you should cook the diced zucchini and yellow squash in a saucepan with water until tender before assembling the casserole.
Should I save the water used to boil the squash?
Yes, you should reserve one cup of the cooking water to add back into the mixture later.
How long does the casserole take to bake?
The total baking time is between 50 and 60 minutes.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
Yes, cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the first part of the baking process.
When should I remove the foil during baking?
Remove the aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to let the top brown and form a crust.
What type of onions are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of chopped yellow onions.
How much butter is required?
You will need 3/4 cup of unsalted butter.
What seasonings are included?
The seasonings include minced garlic, salt, ground pepper, dried thyme, and fresh chopped parsley.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
Are chicken bouillon cubes necessary?
Yes, 3 crushed chicken bouillon cubes are added to enhance the savory flavor of the dish.
How should the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix be prepared?
Prepare the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix according to the directions on the box, let it cool, and then crumble it into the mixture.
What is the preparation method for the squash?
Both the zucchini and yellow squash should be diced before cooking.
How do I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions in melted butter over medium-low heat until they become translucent.
How much fresh parsley should I use?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of fresh, chopped parsley.
What is the amount of thyme needed?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How do I incorporate the cheese?
Add the diced American cheese to the onion and squash mixture and stir until it begins to melt slightly.
Can I make this for a family gathering?
Yes, this dish is described as perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in due to its heartwarming and comforting nature.
What texture can I expect from this casserole?
The casserole has a satisfying texture that is both creamy from the cheese and slightly crumbly from the corn muffin mix.
Is the squash drained before mixing?
Yes, drain the squash after boiling, but remember to keep one cup of the liquid.
How do I prepare the pan?
Grease a 13x11 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray before adding the mixture.
Is this a seasonal dish?
It is a great celebration of seasonal vegetables, particularly fresh summer or fall squash.
How many bouillon cubes are used?
The recipe uses 3 crushed chicken bouillon cubes.
When is the reserved water added?
The reserved cup of cooking water is poured in after adding the crumbled corn muffin mix to help combine the ingredients.