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Cheesy Summer Squash Casserole

This casserole combines thinly sliced summer squash with a savory mixture of sautéed onion and garlic, all bound together with eggs and creamy milk. Topped with toasted breadcrumbs and sharp cheddar, it bakes into a bubbling, golden crust with tender, flavorful squash inside. The final dish offers a comforting, slightly crispy top and a soft, lush interior.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium summer squash thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs lightly toasted in butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup milk whole or skim
  • 1 tablespoon butter for toasting breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or parsley chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Slice the summer squash thinly and place them in a bowl. Squeeze out excess moisture with your hands to prevent sogginess, then set aside.
  2. In a skillet, melt a bit of butter and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and slightly softened, about 2 minutes. This fills your kitchen with a warm aroma and softens the onion for easy mixing.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. This creates a creamy, flavorful binder for the casserole.
  4. Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the egg mixture, then fold in the sliced squash. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated and integrated.
  5. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring gently to distribute it evenly without clumping, ensuring a cheesy, flavorful layer inside.
  6. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. You should see the slices layered in a slightly mounded shape.
  7. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the top, then wait a moment for the topping to settle into a golden, crispy crust during baking.
  8. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes, watching for bubbling and golden brown edges. Cover loosely if it browns too fast to keep the top crispy but not burnt.
  9. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. The bubbling will subside slightly, making it easier to serve clean slices.
  10. Slice into portions and serve warm, enjoying the tender squash with a crispy topping and cheesy, savory flavor in every bite.