If you're looking for a comforting dish that celebrates the humble yellow squash, this Traditional Squash Delight is it. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, it combines layers of tender squash with a crunchy, cheesy topping that everyone will love. Let's dive into this delightful dish that's sure to become a staple in your home.
Yellow squash is the star here, providing a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture once cooked. Onion adds a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the squash. The butter crackers bring a buttery crunch, while the cheddar cheese gives a rich, savory depth. Eggs and milk create a custard-like base that binds everything together. Butter enhances the richness, and a touch of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder round out the flavors nicely.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled pork chops. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty salad with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's ready to go when your casserole is assembled. Next, wash and slice your yellow squash into 1/4 inch rounds. This size is just right for cooking evenly. Grab a large pot, fill it with water, and bring it to a boil. Toss in the squash and the chopped onions, cooking them until tender. This should take about 5 minutes. Once done, drain them well to avoid a watery casserole.
Now, let's get to the topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with the shredded cheddar cheese. This is going to be your crispy, cheesy topping. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture will soak into the squash, giving the dish a deliciously creamy texture.
Time to layer! Take a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and layer half of your squash and onion mix at the bottom. Pour half of your egg mixture over this, ensuring even coverage, then sprinkle half of the cheese and cracker mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of the cheese and cracker mix.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden and the casserole is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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