Parmesan Squash Casserole

Ah, the summer squash! These delightful vegetables shine in this warm and comforting Parmesan Squash Casserole. Why should you consider whipping up this dish, you ask? First and foremost, it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Combining tender squash with juicy tomatoes brings a burst of color and taste to your table. This casserole not only showcases the beauty of seasonal vegetables, but it also creates a dish that is both inviting and satisfying to eat.

Next, let’s talk about ease of preparation. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this casserole is perfect for those busy weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend meals. It’s a recipe that doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find items. Just a bit of chopping, sautéing, and layering, and you’ll have a deliciously cheesy casserole baking away in the oven. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes everyone, from seasoned cooks to those still finding their way in the kitchen.

Finally, let’s not forget about the humble gathering around the dinner table. This Parmesan Squash Casserole is wonderfully versatile: it can serve as a hearty side or even a delightful main dish. It’s perfect for family meals, casual get-togethers, or even potlucks. With its creamy goodness and layers of flavor, your loved ones will linger over dinner just a little bit longer.

How to Make Parmesan Squash Casserole

Ingredients:

4 yellow squash and/or zucchini (about 8 cups sliced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt to taste
2 tomatoes, sliced
2 eggs
1/3 cup sour cream
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t forget to spray a large casserole dish with nonstick spray to ensure easy serving and less cleanup afterward. Now, slice your squash into 1/4-inch rounds. If you’ve got some larger squash, just slice them in half before cutting them into smaller pieces.
Heat your olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Ah, that lovely scent of oil heating! Add in your sliced squash, minced garlic, and fresh thyme leaves, seasoning it all with salt to taste. Sauté gently, stirring until the squash begins to soften—but be careful not to overdo it. We want the squash to retain some of its delightful texture.
Once the squash has softened a bit, remove the pan from heat and introduce your sliced tomatoes. They’ll add a lovely juiciness to the dish.
Now grab a medium-sized bowl, and beat together your eggs, sour cream, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix well until everything is combined and creamy.
Layer half of your sautéed squash mixture into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle some salt and pepper over this layer, then pour half of the egg mixture on top. Repeat this layering with the remaining squash and egg mixture.
To finish, if you’re feeling indulgent, top the casserole with a bit of extra crumbled feta and grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor!
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is bubbling and slightly set. Serve it hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness that is Parmesan Squash Casserole.

How to Serve Parmesan Squash Casserole

Serving this delectable casserole is just as easy as making it! Slice generous portions and plate them up, ensuring everyone gets a hearty helping of those lovely layers of squash and gooey cheese. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some warm crusty bread—after all, you’ll want something to soak up every last bit of that creamy filling.

For gatherings or potluck events, you can serve the casserole straight from the baking dish. It’s a wonderful, comforting dish that invites sharing. Your guests will delight in the warm, cheesy squares, and you’ll bring joy to the table with this nourishing meal.

Another lovely way to enjoy the casserole is for breakfast or brunch the next day. Reheating individual servings brings back the wonderful flavors and aroma, making it a perfect quick meal to start your day.

Additional Tips:

For an interesting twist, try adding some cooked sausage or ground turkey to the squash mixture.
Fresh herbs can also provide a burst of flavor; consider incorporating some basil or parsley if available.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed the next day—just reheat gently to maintain the creaminess.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 10
Calories per Serving: Approximately 180
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 10g

FAQ Section

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use another type of cheese?
Certainly! While feta and Parmesan work beautifully, you can substitute with your favorite cheese like mozzarella or cheddar. Just remember to adjust the amount according to the cheese’s strength.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme works perfectly in this casserole, so feel free to use 1/2 tsp of dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.

Parmesan Squash Casserole

There you have it! A delightful recipe for Parmesan Squash Casserole that encompasses simplicity and flavor, bringing the joy of cooking to your everyday meals. Enjoy!

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