This bright and tasty green chile yellow squash casserole is a perfect side dish! It’s packed with yellow squash, cheesy goodness, and a hint of spice that brings it to life.
I love how simple it is to prepare! Just mix everything together, bake, and let the oven do the work. It disappears fast at dinner—my family can’t get enough of it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star ingredient! You can also use zucchini if you prefer a different flavor. Both have similar textures.
Green Chiles: Diced green chiles add a nice kick. If you want it milder, use a can of diced mild chiles. For more heat, try jalapeños or pepper jack cheese instead!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings creaminess and flavor. You can substitute Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend cheese for a different taste.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the casserole moist. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Ritz Crackers: These create a lovely crunchy topping. If you don’t have Ritz, feel free to substitute with panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for a twist!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Yellow Squash for a Casserole?
Cooking yellow squash lightly before mixing it in the casserole helps reduce its moisture, preventing a soggy dish. Here’s how:
- Slice the squash thinly for even cooking.
- Boil in salted water for about 5 minutes until slightly tender, then drain well. This step enhances the flavor and texture!
- Let it cool slightly before adding it to your other ingredients to avoid cooking the eggs in the mix.
Taking time with this step ensures that your casserole comes out perfectly set and delicious!
Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 cup diced green chiles (mild or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 to 40 minutes to bake, totaling around 50 minutes to bring this tasty dish to your table! It’s a quick and easy way to make a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a medium-sized baking dish (about 8×8 inches) with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large saucepan, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes slightly tender. Drain the squash well and set it aside to cool.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled yellow squash, diced green chiles, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, eggs, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices you want to add. Mix gently until all the ingredients are well blended together.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly in the dish so it cooks perfectly throughout.
5. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy topping.
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes or until it is set and the topping is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before diving in. Enjoy it warm as a delicious side dish, perfect with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal!
Your Easy Green Chile Yellow Squash Casserole is now ready to be enjoyed! 😋
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps prevent a soggy casserole.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply uncover it and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be a great substitute for mayonnaise. They will keep the casserole creamy with a tangy flavor!
