If you're looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that celebrates the bounty of summer squash, this Herbed Squash Casserole is your answer. With a perfect blend of herbs, creamy textures, and a crunchy, cheesy topping, it's a dish that feels like a warm, welcoming hug.
Yellow squash is the star of the show, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with herbs. Butter is used to sauté the aromatics, giving a rich base flavor. Onion and garlic add depth and fragrance to the dish. Dried thyme and basil provide earthy, aromatic notes. Sour cream gives the casserole a creamy texture, while a beaten egg helps bind everything together. The breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture creates a deliciously crispy topping, enhanced by fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds that irresistible cheesy finish.
This casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, offering a light yet satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. A chilled glass of white wine complements the herbs and cheese perfectly.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it enough time to reach the right temperature while you're prepping the other ingredients. Grab a large skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, toss in the onions and garlic and sauté them for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for them to soften and start releasing their wonderful aroma.
Next, stir in the sliced squash, dried thyme, and basil. Let them cook together for about 10 minutes. The squash should become tender but not mushy; you want them to hold their shape in the casserole.
Once the squash is ready, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in sour cream, the beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until well combined, and set it aside for a moment.
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This will be the crumb topping that adds a lovely crunch to the casserole.
Now, pour your squash mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the top, ensuring all areas are covered. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving.
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