CHEESY SUMMER SQUASH CASSEROLE

Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that showcases the best of seasonal produce. This casserole features tender slices of yellow squash and zucchini, layered with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. The combination of gooey melted cheese and the fresh, slightly sweet flavor of summer squash makes this dish a perfect side for any meal, from backyard barbecues to holiday dinners. Easy to prepare and full of cheesy goodness, this casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy the bounty of summer’s harvest in a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups thinly sliced yellow squash and zucchini (about 2-3 medium squash)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or an equivalent-sized casserole dish.
2. Cook the squash: In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash, zucchini, and chopped onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole: Add the cooked squash and onions to the cheese mixture, gently stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
5. Add the topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole is a deliciously rich and creamy dish that brings out the best in fresh summer squash. Its combination of tender vegetables, melty cheese, and crispy topping makes it a standout side dish for any occasion.