This Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish made with tender squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s like a hug in a casserole dish!
You’ll want to share this at every gathering because it disappears fast! I love how easy it is to make—just mix everything and pop it in the oven for a cozy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish, giving it that wonderful texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute! The flavor will change slightly but still delicious.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the casserole. If you prefer a milder taste, you could use shallots or green onions instead.
Cheddar Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, but feel free to switch it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick!
Sour Cream: This provides creaminess. Plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute if you want a healthier option.
Mayonnaise: It adds moisture and richness. You can skip it altogether or replace it with more sour cream or yogurt if you’re in a pinch.
Buttery Crackers: Crushed crackers create a lovely topping. You can use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier finish or even crushed potato chips for a fun twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for the Casserole?
A key step to a great casserole is getting the squash and onion mixture just right. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfect:
- Boil the squash and onions for about 5 minutes until tender, but be sure not to overcook them—just enough to soften.
- Drain thoroughly! Pressing out excess moisture is crucial to avoid a soggy casserole. Use a clean towel for this step for the best results.
- Mix well but gently when combining with cheese, sour cream, and eggs to keep some texture. You want it creamy, not mushy.
Following these tips will help you achieve a fluffy and hearty casserole that everyone will love!
The Best Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Squash Casserole will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake, making it a perfect option for a hearty side dish or a cozy main meal. Total time is around 45-50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking later on.
2. Cook the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add your sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Cook them for about 5 minutes or until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain well and make sure to press out any extra moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is key for a non-soggy casserole!
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and eggs. Stir everything until it’s well mixed. Don’t forget to season this mixture with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder for that extra flavor kick.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish for uniform baking.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Toss the crumbs around until they’re nicely coated. Then, sprinkle this crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, crispy crust!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and you see some bubbling action around the edges—it’s ready when it’s looking delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and trust me, it will be a hit at your table!
Enjoy your homemade Southern squash casserole—perfect for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner!
FAQ for The Best Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini can be used as a substitute. The flavor will vary slightly, but it’ll still taste great in the dish!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of milk to loosen any thickened sections!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can lighten this casserole by using low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and skipping the mayonnaise. You can also use whole grain crackers for the topping for added fiber!
