Squash casserole with Bisquick is a classic Southern-inspired side dish that combines tender summer squash with a crispy, buttery topping made from Bisquick mix. This recipe works beautifully because Bisquick provides a convenient shortcut to a golden crust while keeping the casserole moist and flavorful. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings when you want something comforting yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 cups thinly sliced yellow squash (about 3 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain well and press out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step prevents a watery casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, milk, Bisquick mix, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture will be thick but spreadable.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs if using. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for extra crunch and flavor.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to firm up slightly and makes it easier to cut.
Tips
- Drain the squash thoroughly: Squash contains a lot of water, so pressing out moisture after boiling is crucial to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Substitute Bisquick: If you prefer, you can use an all-purpose flour and baking powder mix (1 1/4 cups flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder) as a homemade alternative to Bisquick.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Customize the topping: For a lighter topping, omit the crackers and use just a sprinkle of extra cheese or a few toasted nuts like pecans for crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This squash casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside roasted or grilled chicken, baked ham, or meatloaf for a classic comfort meal. It also complements smoked pork or barbecued ribs nicely. For a vegetarian meal, serve with a hearty grain salad or lentil loaf. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans add freshness and balance the richness of the casserole.
Variations
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Try adding cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham for a smoky, meaty flavor. Swap out the yellow squash for zucchini or a mix of summer squash varieties. For extra vegetables, fold in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick and gluten-free crackers for the topping. For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and reduce the cheese by half.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover squash casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through, or reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly. If frozen, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as above. Note that freezing may slightly change the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
While fresh squash is preferred for texture, you can use frozen squash if fresh is unavailable. Thaw and drain thoroughly, pressing out as much moisture as possible before mixing. This helps prevent a soggy casserole.
Is Bisquick necessary, or can I replace it?
Bisquick acts as a quick baking mix that adds structure and a tender crumb. You can substitute with a homemade mix of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This keeps the casserole from being too dense and helps it hold together.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Prepare the casserole through assembly, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold to ensure it heats through completely.
Can I add other cheeses besides cheddar?
Absolutely! Cheddar provides sharpness and meltability, but you can mix in mozzarella for creaminess, Monterey Jack for mild flavor, or even a bit of Parmesan for a nutty topping. Just keep the total cheese amount about the same.
What if my casserole is too watery after baking?
This usually means too much moisture was retained from the squash or not enough binding ingredients were used. Next time, be sure to drain and press the squash well before mixing. You can also try adding a little extra Bisquick or cheese to help absorb moisture.
Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), use vegan mayonnaise, and replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative. Use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Squash casserole with Bisquick is a versatile, comforting dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Once you’ve mastered this basic recipe, you can experiment with add-ins and toppings to make it your own staple side.
Related
- Apple Maple Jam Recipe: Sweet, Spiced, and Easy to Make
- How to Visit the Philippines: A Complete Step-by-Step Travel Guide
- Talk to DQ Philippines: How to Connect and Get Support