Summer Squash Casserole Recipe

Summer squash: Fresh, tender squash that forms the base of the casserole.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.

Buttery round crackers: Crushed crackers that provide a crunchy topping and mix-in.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheese that adds a rich, creamy taste.

Eggs: Beaten eggs that help bind the ingredients together.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the casserole mixture.

Butter: Melted butter that enhances the flavor and texture.

Salt: Seasoning that brings out the flavors of the ingredients.

When cooking the summer squash and onion in the skillet, make sure to use just a small amount of water to steam them. This helps to retain their natural flavors and prevents them from becoming too watery. Additionally, after draining the cooked squash and onions, press them gently with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will ensure your casserole has a perfect texture and isn't soggy.

• summer squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it an excellent replacement for summer squash.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor, which can enhance the overall taste of the casserole.

• buttery round crackers - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a similar crunchy texture and can absorb flavors well.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the dish.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water can replace one egg, providing a similar binding effect.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used to maintain the creamy texture without altering the flavor significantly.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a healthier fat option and adds a subtle, pleasant flavor to the casserole.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a depth of umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• Allow the summer squash casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• For freezing, wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the wrapped casserole with the date and contents to keep track of its freshness.
• Freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the thawed casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If the topping needs a bit more crispness, uncover the dish for the last 10 minutes of baking.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover summer squash casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.

• Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Continue to heat in 1-minute increments if needed, until the casserole is hot.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover casserole in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is thoroughly warmed.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or line the basket with parchment paper. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't dry out. This method will help maintain a crispy topping.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want a crispy top.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a precise temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the squash and onion until tender.

• Large bowl: Needed to mix the cooked squash and onions with other ingredients.

• Medium bowl: Used to mix together the cracker crumbs and cheese.

• Small bowl: Ideal for combining the eggs and milk before adding to the main mixture.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring ingredients like milk and butter.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities such as salt.

• Knife: Required for chopping the onion and slicing the summer squash.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and slicing vegetables.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring and mixing ingredients together.

• Baking dish: A 9x13 inch dish is used to spread the casserole mixture evenly for baking.

• Aluminum foil: Can be used to cover the skillet while cooking the squash and onion.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling hot dishes from the oven.

• Colander: Useful for draining the cooked squash and onions.

• Cheese grater: Needed to shred the cheddar cheese.

Pre-cook the squash: Steam or microwave the summer squash and onion ahead of time to reduce cooking time on the stove.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to save time on grating.

Crush crackers quickly: Place buttery round crackers in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin for quick and easy crumbs.

Mix in one bowl: Combine all ingredients in one large bowl to minimize cleanup and streamline the process.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping to ensure it's ready when you are.