This Southern Squash Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! With fresh squash and melted cheese, it’s creamy and comforting, making it perfect for family dinners.
Don’t be surprised if you find everyone coming back for seconds—they can’t resist that cheesy goodness! I love serving it alongside some grilled chicken for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash gives this dish its signature flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute. Just keep the texture in mind—zucchini has a higher moisture content.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I adore sharp cheddar for its bold taste. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, try using mild cheddar or a Mexican blend cheese. You can also go dairy-free with a vegan cheese substitute.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Both add creaminess, but if you’re looking for lighter options, Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream. If you need a dairy-free option, use a plant-based yogurt.
Buttery Crackers: While Ritz crackers are classic, you can use any buttery cracker you like. For a gluten-free option, almond flour and melted butter mixed together can make a delicious topping.
How Do I Get the Right Texture in My Casserole?
The texture of your casserole can make or break the dish, so pay close attention to the veggies and baking time. Make sure to steam or boil the squash and onions until tender, then be sure to drain them well. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy casserole!
- Steam or boil squash and onions for 8-10 minutes until tender, then drain thoroughly.
- Mix ingredients well to integrate flavors and texture.
- Bake the casserole until it’s golden brown on top; this means you’ll get that lovely crust that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Easy Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 4 cups fresh yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
For The Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 35-40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 55 minutes to have a delicious and cozy side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake. While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
Slice the fresh yellow squash and finely chop the onion. In a pot, steam or boil the squash and onions until they’re tender, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to drain them well afterward to get rid of any excess moisture!
3. Mix It Up:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well combined – make sure the squash is evenly mixed in!
4. Pour and Spread:
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
5. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are nicely moistened. Then, sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If you like, you can sprinkle a bit of paprika on top for added color.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This is a delicious and cozy side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini can work as a great substitute. Just be mindful that zucchini has a higher water content, so be sure to drain it well after cooking.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge, as it will be cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream or a bit of cheese on top before reheating to keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by substituting the buttery crackers with gluten-free crackers or using crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free!
