The squash casserole my mom’s farm inspired
If you’ve got summer squash multiplying faster than you can cook it, I know the feeling. My mom has a farm, and every summer she sends me home with bags and BAGS of zucchini and yellow squash.
I’ve turned that haul into just about everything, from Sautéed Zucchini and Squash and Parmesan Crusted Zucchini to a big batch of Crispy Zucchini Fritters. But there’s only so much a family can get through before some of it starts to go.
This Summer Squash Casserole was always one of my favorite summer sides growing up. The classic version is usually loaded with sour cream, mayo, and crushed Ritz crackers.
(Now don’t get me wrong… I LOVE those buttery crackers. Just not on a random Tuesday.)
So I made a lighter one. Just sliced zucchini and yellow squash layered up, salted so they don’t turn watery, and topped with Parmesan and crispy panko breadcrumbs.
A few minutes under the broiler and the top goes golden and crisp. It holds its own next to the heavy version, and it’s the one my family actually asks for again and again!
A friend gave me several zucchini & yellow squash from her garden. I sure didn’t want to let them go to waste since I live alone. Found this recipe online and decided to make it. It did not disappoint. The texture was perfect, the squash slices were tender, but kept their shape and with the crumb in Parmesan cheese topping, it was very tasty. I will make this again.
– Linda
Ingredients and Substitutions
For the exact measurements and detailed instructions, please see the recipe card below.
- Parsley. Not absolutely necessary but it makes the casserole really pretty when serving. You can also use fresh thyme or other herbs you love.
- Squash. Feel free to use all yellow summer squash or all zucchini if that’s what you have. However, the alternating colors are what make this casserole so unique and pretty!
- Olive oil. You can also use any other type of oil that does not have a ton of flavor. Avocado, safflower, and sunflower oils will all work equally as well.
- Garlic Powder. You only need a little bit, but it’s the secret ingredient that gives this dish a unique flavor!
- Parmesan cheese. Regular, dairy-filled Parmesan cheese is best. You can also use vegan and dairy-free Parmesan cheese. If necessary, you can sub in another variety, like sharp cheddar cheese, but the result won’t be quite the same.
- Panko Breadcrumbs. You can use regular breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs. The taste will be minimally affected. You can substitute with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, but you will need to make sure to adjust the amount of salt you add
Step-by-step Instructions
Please see the recipe card below for the full instructions, ingredient amounts, and a printable recipe.
Prep the squash.
Slice the squash into ¼-inch rounds using a mandolin or sharp knife. Thicker slices will need more time; thinner ones can turn soggy.
Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry. This draws out excess moisture so the casserole bakes up crisp instead of watery.
Layer in the pan.
Layer the zucchini and yellow squash, alternating types, in a 9-inch square baking dish.
Season the casserole.
Lightly season the layered squash with salt and pepper.
Whisk together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Then, pour the mixture in an even layer over the zucchini and squash.
Bake in the oven.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes. It may take a few minutes more if the slices were cut thick, or less time if the squash slices are thin.
Broil for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it! The topping will crisp up and turn golden brown quickly.
Ways to change it up
- Italian breadcrumbs: These work too. Just go easy on the added salt, since they’re already seasoned.
- All one squash: Use all zucchini or all yellow squash if that’s what you’ve got. The alternating colors just make it prettier.
- Cheese: Parmesan keeps it light and salty. A little sharp cheddar on top makes it richer if that’s the mood.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley is my go-to, but thyme or basil are both great here.
- Gluten-free: Swap in Aleia’s gluten-free panko and nobody will know the difference.
How to store and reheat squash casserole
- Fridge: Let it cool, then store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
- Reheating: Pop it back in a 350-degree oven or the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispy top. The microwave works in a hurry, but the topping goes soft.
- Make ahead: Assemble the whole thing, cover, and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bring it to room temperature and bake right before serving.
- Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this one. Summer squash holds a lot of water, so it turns soft and watery after it thaws.
FAQs
The answer to keeping your casserole from getting watery is to salt before cooking. Squash releases extra moisture while cooking. However, there is a trick to prevent this. After you’ve sliced your squash, sprinkle it with salt, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then blot dry the moisture that the salt drew out.
Nope, leave the skin on. It’s thin and tender, it adds color, and it helps the slices hold their shape as they bake.
Totally. Use whatever you have, or whatever your garden is overrun with. The mix of colors just makes it prettier on the table.
Yes. Just use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs in place of regular. Everything else in the recipe is already gluten-free.
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Zucchini and Squash Casserole Recipe
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds summer squash zucchini and yellow squash, cut into ¼-inch slices
- 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ¼ teaspoons salt divided
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese grated
- ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs gluten-free
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Cut yellow squash and zucchini into thin, ¼-inch slices. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon salt over the zucchini and squash slices. Let sit for 10 minutes and then dab to remove excess moisture with a paper towel.2 pounds summer squash
- Spray a 9-inch square baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, overlap the zucchini and squash in a row. You should be able to form 4 rows.* Drizzle olive oil over the zucchini and squash and then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Toss to combine and then sprinkle over the zucchini and squash.⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and turn heat to a High broil. Broil for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until breadcrumb topping starts to turn a golden brown. Serve immediately with fresh parsley and enjoy!
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Notes
- Cheese: Can use a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute.
- Squash: I like to get small-medium, similarly-sized summer squash so they will be able to fit into four rows easily!
- Tools: A mandolin gives you the most precise slices so they all cook at a similar rate.
- Salt: A little salt will help prevent a soggy mess. Let the salted squash sit, then blot dry. The salt draws out excess moisture.
- Breadcrumbs: Try out Italian breadcrumbs. Since they’re pre-seasoned and often contain salt, you will have to adjust the other seasoning ingredients.
- Broiling: This gives it a great crunchy topping.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
- Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature and bake right before serving.
- Freezing: Not recommended. Summer squash holds a lot of water, so it turns soft and watery after thawing.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
What to Serve with Squash Casserole?
This dish is an excellent side for family meals. Try one of these recipes alongside it.
For some flavor, try out this Hot Honey Chicken. Or get fancy with Chicken Cordon Bleu.
Skip the potatoes and try this zucchini casserole with Air Fryer Steak or Filet Mignon.
If you’re a seafood lover, go for Panko Crusted Salmon, Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon or Air Fryer Salmon.
Other Squash Recipes
If you love the simplicity of this summer squash casserole, make sure to check out these other easy squash recipes that are perfect for using up this summer produce.
Easy to make. Needed a larger pan. In the oven now.
Thanks for giving the recipe a try, Ruth Anne! I hope it turns out wonderfully for you. And thanks for mentioning the pan size—that’s helpful feedback for other readers, too. Enjoy the casserole, and I’d love to hear what you think once it’s out of the oven!
This is a simple recipe that is delicious! It’s easy to make, and it looks so pretty in the pan. It’s a great way to use excess summer squash, and it just has a fresh, summery taste. I loved it!
Thank you so much, Karen! I’m delighted that you loved the casserole. I agree—it’s such a great way to use up summer squash, and I love how colorful and inviting it looks when it comes out of the oven. I’m so glad you enjoyed its fresh, summery flavor. Thanks for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review!
I only have a question. I am making this and have Kraft grated cheese that we put on spaghetti. is that OK to use?
Hi Melody! Yes, that should work just fine. The grated Parmesan-style cheese in the green Kraft container will give you a slightly different texture and flavor than freshly grated Parmesan, but it will still add that nice cheesy, savory element to the casserole. Hope you enjoy the recipe!
I followed the recipe exactly to the T, but would suggest baking it another 3-5 minutes longer in oven. It was a bit Al dente, but still tasted good. I bet this would be good with summer tomatoes added in too!
Thank you so much, Ruby! That’s great feedback — oven times can definitely vary a bit depending on slice thickness and the dish used, so an extra few minutes is a good call if you like it more tender. And I love the idea of adding summer tomatoes… that would be delicious. I’m so glad you enjoyed it!