Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole: Comfort Food You’ll Crave

There’s nothing quite like the rich, heartwarming aroma of a casserole fresh from the oven to lift your spirits after a long day. Picture this: as the Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole bubbles and golden crust forms, a blend of creamy sour cream and savory cheeses melds beautifully with vibrant vegetables like yellow squash and carrots. I created this dish on a chilly evening when comfort food felt essential, and it quickly became a family favorite.

What makes this casserole truly special is its delightful contrast of textures, with a buttery stuffing mix that adds a crispy topping, perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness below. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of moments shared around the dinner table, easily serving as a star centerpiece or a comforting side. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just craving a nutritious twist on comfort food, this Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive in and create something delicious together!

this Recipe

Why will you love this Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole?

Irresistible flavors: The harmonious blend of creamy sour cream and irresistible cheese brings depth to this comforting dish.
Nutritious ingredients: Packed with vibrant vegetables, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes as much as it satisfies.
Crispy topping: The buttery stuffing mix forms a perfectly golden crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Family-friendly appeal: Whether kids or adults, everyone will adore the cozy warmth this casserole brings to the table.
Easy preparation: This dish comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a delightful balance!

Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole Ingredients

For the Vegetable Mixture

• Carrots – Provides sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
• Onion – Adds savory depth; use shallots for a milder taste.
• Celery – Contributes crunch and freshness; can be omitted for a simpler dish.
• Bell Pepper – Offers sweetness and color; any bell pepper works; green adds a more herbaceous flavor.
• Yellow Squash – Key vegetable for creaminess; substitute with zucchini if desired.

For the Creamy Base

• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter version.
• Condensed Cream of Celery Soup – Provides richness and flavor; replace with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – Enhances savory flavors; use another cream soup or a homemade roux for a vegetarian option.

For Topping

• Stuffing Mix – Forms the base and crispy topping; swap with breadcrumbs for a lighter crunch.
• Butter – Adds richness; can use olive oil for a healthier alternative.
• Cheese – Offers creaminess and flavor; cheddar is ideal; utilize a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

How to Make Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray. This ensures an easy release for your casserole once it’s baked.

2. Mix vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the diced carrots, onion, celery, bell pepper, and yellow squash. Add in the sour cream, and both condensed soups. Mix until everything is well-coated in that creamy goodness.

3. Layer stuffing: Spoon a layer of the stuffing mix into the prepared baking dish. This will serve as the base for your delicious casserole.

4. Add cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the vegetable mixture, allowing its creamy flavor to meld beautifully with the veggies below.

5. Top with stuffing: Cover the cheesy layer with the remaining buttered stuffing mix. Make sure to spread it evenly, creating a harmonious topping that will turn golden brown while baking.

6. Bake casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden and bubbly. Watch closely, as the magic happens when the aroma fills your kitchen!

7. Cool and serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit, making for easier slicing and serving.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the vegetables, creamy base, and stuffing as directed, then cover and refrigerate overnight. To maintain quality, avoid adding the cheese and final layer of stuffing until just before baking; this ensures a crispy topping. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the cheese and remaining stuffing on top and bake as instructed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This way, you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal ready to go with minimal effort!

Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole Variations

Feel free to customize and elevate your casserole experience with these fun twists!

• Vegetable Boost: Substitute different seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale for an extra dose of nutrition. These greens add both color and health benefits.

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to create a unique flavor profile. This small change can bring a whole new vibe to your casserole.

• Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free stuffing mix or breadcrumbs to cater to dietary needs, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish without compromise.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a zesty twist that turns up the heat. This variation invites those who enjoy a bold flavor to savor their meal.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the mixture. Their fragrant aroma and taste will elevate the casserole to the next level.

• Creamy Vegan Version: Swap out the sour cream and cream soups for cashew cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that remains deliciously rich.

• Flavorful Additions: Mix in a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic for a gourmet uplift. These ingredients bring a depth of flavor that will surprise your taste buds.

• Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed pecans or walnuts for an added layer of texture and richness. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides a satisfying crunch to each bite.

What to Serve with Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole?

Create a comforting and delightful meal by pairing your casserole with these wonderful accompaniments.

• Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens sprinkled with vibrant veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy casserole.

• Garlic Breadsticks: The delightful crunch and savory flavor of garlic breadsticks make for a perfect pairing, great for scooping up every last bite.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, roasted seasonal vegetables deliver additional layers of flavor and a nice pop of color to your plate.

• Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy creaminess of coleslaw complements the casserole’s warm flavors, adding a crunchy texture that balances the softness.

• Steamed Broccoli: Tender yet slightly crunchy, steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also a vibrant green contrast alongside your casserole.

• Sweet Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread brings a cozy comfort to the meal, harmonizing beautifully with the cheesy richness.

• Sparkling Apple Cider: A refreshing and slightly sweet drink, sparkling apple cider pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the casserole, making every bite sing.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole

• Uniform Chopping: Ensure even chopping of your vegetables for uniform cooking. This promotes consistent texture throughout your Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole.

• Cooling Time: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to allow it to set. This keeps your portions neat and prevents the filling from spilling out.

• Don’t Overbake: Avoid overbaking to prevent the casserole from drying out. You want that perfect golden-brown topping, not a crunchy, overcooked dish.

• Seasoning Matters: Consider adding spices such as thyme or rosemary for enhanced flavor. A little herbaceous touch can elevate your Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole.

• Creative Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substitute seasonal vegetables or different cheese types to personalize the flavor profile to your liking.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole fresh and ready for reheating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate. Bake it fresh just before serving for the ultimate experience!

Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of yellow squash should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use firm, fresh yellow squash that is free of dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a wonderful substitute! Just keep in mind that zucchini tends to have a slightly higher water content, so it may need a few extra minutes of cooking.

How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate your Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days; just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This way, you can savor that delicious comfort food once more!

Can I freeze this casserole?
Very much so! To freeze your Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated.

What if my casserole is too watery?
If you find your casserole to be too watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To remedy this, try patting down your sliced vegetables with paper towels before mixing them into the casserole. For next time, consider sautéing them for a few minutes to reduce moisture content before mixing.

Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! To make this Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole vegetarian, simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade roux or a can of cream of mushroom soup. You can also use vegetable broth in place of any meat-based ingredients to ensure everyone can partake in the comforting goodness!

Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole: Comfort Food You'll Crave

Cheesy Crispy Squash Casserole is a comforting dish that blends creamy sour cream, savory cheeses, and vibrant vegetables, creating an irresistible flavor experience.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Cooling Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 slices

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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For the Vegetable Mixture

• 2 medium Carrots Provides sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
• 1 medium Onion Adds savory depth; use shallots for a milder taste.
• 1 cup Celery Contributes crunch and freshness; can be omitted for a simpler dish.
• 1 medium Bell Pepper Offers sweetness and color; any bell pepper works; green adds a more herbaceous flavor.
• 4 medium Yellow Squash Key vegetable for creaminess; substitute with zucchini if desired.

For the Creamy Base

• 1 cup Sour Cream Adds creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter version.
• 1 can Condensed Cream of Celery Soup Provides richness and flavor; replace with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
• 1 can Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup Enhances savory flavors; use another cream soup or a homemade roux for a vegetarian option.

For Topping

• 2 cups Stuffing Mix Forms the base and crispy topping; swap with breadcrumbs for a lighter crunch.
• 4 tablespoons Butter Adds richness; can use olive oil for a healthier alternative.
• 2 cups Cheese Offers creaminess and flavor; cheddar is ideal; utilize a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• large bowl

Method

 

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced carrots, onion, celery, bell pepper, and yellow squash. Add in the sour cream, and both condensed soups. Mix until everything is well-coated.
3. Spoon a layer of the stuffing mix into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the vegetable mixture.
5. Cover the cheesy layer with the remaining buttered stuffing mix.
6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden and bubbly.
7. Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. You can also substitute seasonal vegetables or different cheese types to personalize the flavor profile.

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