Broccoli Squash Bake

Broccoli Squash Bake is a delightful and nutritious casserole that brings together the earthy flavors of broccoli and the natural sweetness of squash in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This bake is the perfect side dish for any meal, offering a comforting blend of textures and flavors. The tender broccoli and squash are baked to perfection, covered in a rich sauce and topped with a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re looking for a dish to accompany a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this Broccoli Squash Bake is sure to satisfy and impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups yellow squash or zucchini, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets and sliced squash until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
5. Combine and Assemble: Add the steamed broccoli and squash to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the vegetables in the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve: Allow the Broccoli Squash Bake to cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal.

This Broccoli Squash Bake is a versatile dish that adds a touch of comfort and elegance to any table. The creamy, cheesy filling with a crunchy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both special occasions and everyday dinners.