TWO SQUASH CASSEROLE

Two Squash Casserole 

Using both zucchini and yellow squash gives this version of the classic more color, texture, and flavor. If the yellow squash are large at the bottom, cut the necks into rounds, but cut the bulbous bottoms in half or quarters before you slice them, to keep the sizes more uniform. Mixing crushed fried onions into the Ritz cracker topping is a genius move; it adds even more crunch and flavor.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds crookneck (yellow) squash, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 1 pound zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 large green pepper, cored and diced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Dora's Savannah Seasoning, about 1 tablespoon or to taste (see note)
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/2 cup canned fried onions, crushed

PREPARATION

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Put the squash and zucchini in a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and simmer just a few minutes, until the squash is tender. Drain well and let it cool, then dry the squash between two towels or paper towels. (It’s important to drain and pat the squash dry, so the casserole isn’t too soupy.
3. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until soft, 6-7 minutes
4. Scrape the onions and peppers into a large mixing bowl. Add the squashes, sour cream, cheese, and seasoning and stir to mix well. Spread in a 9-by-7-inch or 8-inch-square casserole dish.

1. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. In a small bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, fried onions, and butter and mix well. Sprinkle over the casserole and bake until golden brown and bubbling, 25 to 30 minutes. Serve hot or warm.
2. Dora’s Savannah Seasoning: 1/3 cup Lawry’s seasoned salt, 1/4 cup salt, 2 scant teaspoons garlic powder and 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper. This will make more than you’ll need, but it’s a handy all-purpose seasoning to keep around.