This Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish made with fresh squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs on top. It’s packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
If you love easy recipes, this one’s a winner! I love serving it as a side for family dinners. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds—or maybe thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh, tender yellow squash is the star of this dish. If you can’t find it, zucchini can be a great substitute. They have a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap.
Sour Cream: For a tangy flavor and creaminess, I always use full-fat sour cream. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well in its place, and it adds some extra protein too!
Cheeses: Cheddar is my go-to cheese for a rich taste. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some extra kick! Mozzarella is optional, but it gives a lovely stretchy texture.
Crushed Crackers: Butter crackers like Ritz create a delicious topping. If you need a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free cracker crumbs work beautifully.
How Do You Cook the Squash for This Casserole?
Getting the squash just right is key to this dish. The goal is to soften the squash without making it watery. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; this helps keep the squash flavorful.
- Add the sliced squash and cook for about 5 minutes until just tender. This quick cook keeps the squash from getting mushy.
- Drain well and let it sit so excess moisture can escape before mixing it with the other ingredients.
By following these steps, your casserole will have a lovely texture and flavor!
The Best Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced thin (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz crackers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping color and flavor)
Time Needed:
This flavorful Southern Squash Casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 30-40 minutes in the oven for baking. In total, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour for deliciousness from prep to serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Squash
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your thinly sliced squash and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until just tender. Once done, drain it well and set it aside to cool a little.
3. Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash with the chopped onion, beaten eggs, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese (if using). Next, add the flour, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir it all together until everything is nicely mixed.
4. Get Ready to Bake
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to make sure every bite is packed with flavor.
5. Topping Time
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter until well combined. Then, sprinkle this crunchy topping over the entire casserole to add a perfect golden, crispy layer.
6. Bake
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in the oven and let it bake uncovered for about 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the top is nice and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to serve. Then, you’re ready to enjoy your creamy, comforting Southern Squash Casserole!
Dig in and savor every mouthful—this dish is bound to become a new favorite at your table!
FAQ for Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before using it in the recipe. This helps prevent the casserole from getting too watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to step 4, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them slightly to remove some moisture before adding to the mixture.
