This Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish filled with fresh squash, creamy cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s like a hug on a plate!
Every bite is cheesy and delicious, making it hard to resist seconds (or thirds!). I love serving it at family gatherings—it always disappears fast!
Plus, it’s so easy to make! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the mouthwatering smell filling your kitchen. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish, offering a tender texture and mild flavor. If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini works well as a substitute. Just slice it the same way!
Onion: A medium onion brings great flavor. You can use sweet onions for an extra layer of sweetness or even shallots if you want a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try low-fat cheese or even mix in some mozzarella for a different twist.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These make the casserole creamy. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and even mayonnaise—just keep the flavors in mind!
Buttery Crackers: Crushed crackers add a nice crunch on top. If you want a healthier choice, consider using whole wheat crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
How Do You Ensure the Squash Doesn’t Get Soggy?
A common challenge with squash casserole is moisture. To avoid this, it’s key to cook the squash and onion beforehand. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to sauté the squash and onion—this helps them soften without releasing too much liquid.
- After cooking, make sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing them into your casserole. This keeps your dish from becoming watery!
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish for even cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious, well-textured squash casserole everyone will love! Enjoy!
The Best Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 to 40 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need about 50 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Wash and slice the yellow squash thinly. In a large skillet, cook the sliced squash and chopped onion over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until everything is tender. Once they’re done, be sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy casserole.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. This helps ensure that it bakes evenly, too!
5. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the squash mixture—you want every bite to have some crunch!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit and makes serving easier. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Southern squash casserole with your favorite meal!
Happy cooking!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, you can substitute zucchini or even mix in some pattypan squash for a colorful twist. Just make sure to slice them similarly to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream are excellent alternatives! They provide a similar creaminess without compromising the flavor. Just keep in mind that using Greek yogurt will add a tangy note to the dish.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Enjoy your cooking experience and feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!
