Looking for a delicious and comforting side dish to add to your dinner table? This Yellow Squash Casserole is a must-try! Packed with flavors and easy to make, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a casserole dish.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the squash and onion until tender.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked squash and onion, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and melted butter.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
5. Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 280
– Total Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 12g
– Cholesterol: 55mg
– Sodium: 450mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 18g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 4g
– Protein: 7g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
– Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
– Yes, Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative to sour cream in this recipe.
3. Can I use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz crackers?
– Yes, feel free to use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs as a substitute.
4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
– Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
– Definitely! You can add in bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
6. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers for later consumption.
7. Can I make this casserole without using canned soup?
– You can make a homemade cream sauce as a substitute for the canned soup.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
– While butter adds great flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.
9. Can I add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor?
– Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor profile of this casserole.
10. Can I adjust the seasoning to make it spicier?
– Feel free to add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to spice up this dish according to your preferences.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. Add a sprinkle of paprika on top before baking for added color and flavor.
2. Try adding some cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist to this casserole.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving for a fresh touch.
4. For a crispy topping, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter before sprinkling on top.
5. Use a combination of yellow and green squash for a colorful variation.
6. Experiment with different types of cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
7. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
8. Feel free to add a layer of sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
9. Serve this casserole alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
10. Customize the seasoning with herbs like thyme, oregano, or garlic powder according to your taste preferences.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Be sure to thoroughly drain the cooked squash to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
2. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set and develop flavors.
3. Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar cheese for a balanced flavor profile.
4. For a crustier top, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking.
5. Ensure the squash slices are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
6. Experiment with different types of crackers or breadcrumbs for alternative toppings.
7. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
8. Don’t skimp on the butter as it adds richness and flavor to the casserole.
9. Feel free to add in diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy variation.
10. Make sure to season the squash mixture generously with salt and pepper for a well-balanced dish.
Enjoy this tasty Yellow Squash Casserole as a delightful side dish that will surely impress your loved ones with its comforting flavors and ease of preparation!