Brenda Gantt's squash casserole has woven its way into the heart of American cuisine, standing as a testament to Southern cooking's ability to offer both comfort and flair on a single plate.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and slice 4 cups of yellow squash. Chop 1/2 cup of bell pepper for a pop of color and flavor, and 1/2 cup of onion.
In a large skillet, melt half of the stick of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until they're soft.
To the skillet, add the sliced squash and continue to cook until the squash is tender.
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of mayonnaise and mix with the squash mixture until well combined.
Grease your casserole dish with the remaining butter. Spread the squash mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle 2 cups of grated cheese over the top.
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm alongside a green salad for a complete meal.