Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole with a Crispy Topping

My heart always sings a little tune when I think about a beautifully baked Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a symphony of creamy, tender squash nestled in a rich cheese sauce, all crowned with a golden, crispy topping that promises pure comfort with every spoonful. This is the kind of heartwarming side dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion, blending simple garden goodness with irresistible indulgence.

I remember childhood afternoons, watching my grandmother transform humble garden vegetables into dishes that felt like magic. She had a way of making everything taste extraordinary, and it was in her sun-drenched kitchen that I first learned the secret to turning simple ingredients into something truly memorable, just like this comforting casserole.

This recipe is wonderfully approachable, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy garden fresh produce, making a nourishing and satisfying treat. My top tip? Always taste your cheese sauce before combining; a little extra seasoning can make all the difference!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Creating this incredible Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole begins with fresh, vibrant squash and a medley of pantry staples. The star, of course, is the creamy cheese sauce, a blend of butter, flour, milk, and a generous mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan, forming the comforting heart of the dish. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements ready for you in the recipe card below.

How to Make Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole

Whipping up this delightful Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole is a breeze, truly! We start by preparing the tender zucchini and yellow squash, giving them a quick sauté. Next, we craft a luscious, savory cheese sauce, rich with dairy and a hint of spice. Then, it’s all about layering the softened squash with that glorious sauce before topping it with a buttery panko mixture for that irresistible crunch, then baking it to golden perfection.

Creamy Zucchini and Yellow Squash Casserole

A delightful and comforting casserole featuring tender slices of zucchini and yellow squash baked in a rich, cheesy sauce and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a satisfying side dish for any meal.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Squash

• 2 lbs zucchini and/or yellow squash sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk whole or 2%
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional, for depth of flavor
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

Prepare the Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced zucchini and/or yellow squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until all slices are evenly coated.
3. Arrange the seasoned squash in a single layer (or slightly overlapping) in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes to partially cook the squash and allow it to release some moisture. Carefully drain any excess liquid from the dish and set the squash aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

1. While the squash is baking, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux. Do not let it brown.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens (this usually takes about 3-5 minutes).
4. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the partially baked squash in the baking dish. Gently toss the squash with the sauce to ensure all pieces are coated, or simply spread the sauce over the top.
2. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
3. Evenly sprinkle the cheesy breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp.

Serve

1. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes for easier serving.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing a small diced onion in the butter before adding the flour for the sauce. This casserole can be assembled up to a day ahead of time (excluding the breadcrumb topping), covered, and refrigerated. Add the topping just before baking. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Pro Tips for Making This Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole

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  Don’t Skimp on Draining: Zucchini and yellow squash hold a lot of water! After you sauté them, I always recommend letting them drain in a colander for a few minutes. This prevents your delicious Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole from becoming watery, ensuring that perfectly creamy texture we all adore.

  
  
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  My Secret Trick: I always like to toast the panko breadcrumbs gently in a dry skillet for a minute or two before mixing them with melted butter. This extra step deepens their flavor and guarantees an even crispier, more golden topping for your casserole.

  
  
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  Cheese Sauce Smoothness: When making the cheese sauce, ensure your milk is at room temperature. Adding cold milk to a hot roux can sometimes create lumps. Whisk continuously as you slowly pour it in for a velvety smooth sauce, just like my grandmother taught me.

  
  
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  Seasoning Layers: Don’t be shy with seasoning at each stage! A pinch of salt and pepper on the squash, a taste-test for the cheese sauce, and even a sprinkle on the panko topping will elevate every bite of your wonderful squash casserole.

Fun Variations for Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole

I love how versatile a comforting dish can be, and this Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole is no exception! It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your creative touch. Here are a few ideas that my friends and I have enjoyed over the years:

Herbaceous Twists

For an aromatic boost, consider adding fresh herbs to your cheese sauce. A sprinkle of chopped fresh dill, chives, or even a mix of Italian herbs can really brighten the flavors. My neighbor, always a fan of garden-fresh goodness, loves when I add a hint of fresh basil to hers!

Protein Power-Up

If you want to turn this side dish into a more substantial meal, try folding in some cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or even some crumbled cooked sausage into the squash mixture before baking. It makes for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s still quick to prepare.

Spice It Up!

For those who enjoy a little kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce in the cheese sauce can add a delightful warmth. Alternatively, using a pepper jack cheese in place of some of the cheddar will give a lovely, subtle heat that makes every bite intriguing.

What to Serve With Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole

This delightful Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole is so comforting and versatile, making it a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of meals. It truly shines as a side dish, bringing a creamy, savory balance to almost anything.

• Roasted Meats: It pairs beautifully with a succulent roasted chicken, a tender pork loin, or even a simple pan-seared steak. The richness of the casserole complements the savory flavors of the meat perfectly.
• Simple Greens: To balance the indulgence, I often love to serve it alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. It adds a lovely contrast in texture and brightens the palate. My mom always said a meal needs a bit of everything!
• Hearty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of artisanal bread or some soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious cheese sauce. It’s a simple pleasure that makes the meal feel complete.
• Weekday Delight: For a quick weekday dinner, I sometimes pair a smaller portion of this casserole with a simple grilled chicken breast or even a bowl of warm tomato soup for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How to Store Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole

Ensuring your delicious Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole stays fresh and delightful for future enjoyment is key! This casserole holds up wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

Refrigerator Storage

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When I store my casseroles, I always make sure the lid is snug to prevent any air from drying out the creamy goodness inside.

Freezing for Later

For longer storage, this casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until bubbling and hot. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want to crisp up the topping again.

Nutritional Benefits

This delightful Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole offers more than just comfort; it’s also packed with wholesome goodness! Zucchini and yellow squash are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting good digestion. Combined with the calcium from the cheeses, it’s a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing, showing how simple ingredients can truly shine.

FAQs

What kind of squash can I use?

You can use either zucchini, yellow squash, or a combination of both for this Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole. Both types offer a similar tender texture and mild flavor that blends beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole up to a day in advance. Prepare it through the layering step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add the panko topping just before baking to ensure it stays crispy.

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

The key to avoiding a watery Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole is to properly drain your sautéed squash. After cooking, let it sit in a colander for a few minutes, gently pressing out any excess liquid. This simple step makes all the difference!

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

While the traditional Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole relies on dairy for its creamy texture, you could experiment with dairy-free milk, butter, and cheese alternatives. Just be sure to choose varieties that melt and blend well for the sauce.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about bringing a homemade Zucchini or Yellow Squash Casserole to the table. It’s a dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and the joy of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. I hope this recipe inspires you to create beautiful memories in your own kitchen, proving that with a little love and patience, every homemade dessert—or in this case, a savory delight—can be a magical treat that brings people together. Happy baking, sweet friends!