This Classic Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings. With fresh squash, creamy cheese, and a tasty crumb topping, it’s hard to resist!
I love how this casserole makes veggies so tasty! It’s an easy way to get your family to eat more squash while enjoying a cheesy treat. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here, adding both flavor and texture. If you’re out of yellow squash, zucchini makes a great substitute. Both are tender and mild!
Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness and depth. You can swap it for shallots or green onions if you prefer a milder taste or don’t have a regular onion around.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives great flavor! For a milder taste, use mild cheddar or even a cheese blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan cheese that melts well.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess. You can use plain Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a healthier option. It gives that same creamy texture but with extra protein.
Buttery Crackers: They create a crunchy topping. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free crackers. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch!
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for the Casserole?
Getting the right texture is crucial for a successful casserole. After boiling your squash, it’s essential to drain it thoroughly. Excess water can make your dish soggy!
- Slice squash thinly and cook just until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain and let sit in a colander to remove any extra moisture.
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Make sure everything is combined well for an even bake.
- When topping with crackers, make sure they’re evenly spread to get that nice crunch all over.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving, as this helps it set and makes it easier to portion out.
Classic Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz) or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (optional, for added flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 30-40 minutes for baking. In total, plan on about 1 hour for making this delicious casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, let’s get your oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help your casserole come out easily when it’s done baking!
2. Cook the Squash:
Slice your yellow squash thinly. Bring a large pot of salted water to boiling, then add the squash slices. Cook them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are just tender. Once done, drain the squash well and set it aside to cool a little.
3. Mix It Up:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, chopped onion, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, salt, and pepper. If you’re using garlic powder or green bell pepper, add those too! Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Now it’s time to pour the squash mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it bakes well.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter. This will give the topping a tasty crunch!
6. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the squash mixture. This will create a delicious crispy crust on your casserole.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. You want it to be golden brown on top and bubbly all over—this means it’s ready to enjoy!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set up nicely and make it easier to cut into portions.
Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and comforting Classic Southern Squash Casserole as a savory side dish to your favorite Southern meals!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This will help maintain the right texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, remove the wrap and bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Southern Squash Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried chicken, or any Southern-inspired dinner. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
