This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and cozy dish filled with tender squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy topping. It’s a perfect side for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! If you can’t find it, zucchini works just as well. It’ll give you a slightly different flavor but still delicious.
Onion: A medium onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re not a fan of onion, sautéed garlic can be a nice replacement for that base flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a rich taste, but feel free to substitute Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy!
Crushed Crackers: Buttery crackers like Ritz are great for topping. If you’re gluten-free, gluten-free crackers or panko can easily take their place.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative that also ups the protein. You can even skip it for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Squash?
Getting your squash cooked just right is key for the casserole’s texture! Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Add the sliced yellow squash and cook for 3-4 minutes. You want it tender but not mushy.
- Drain the squash well. This stops the cooking and removes excess moisture that could make your casserole soggy.
This simple technique makes a world of difference in achieving a nice, creamy casserole without water pooling on your plate! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 50 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and about 40 minutes for baking. It’s quick to throw together, making it a perfect side dish for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the casserole.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully add the sliced yellow squash and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until tender. Drain well to remove excess water and let it cool slightly.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, add the cooked squash, finely chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until well combined—make sure all the squash is coated!
4. Add the Flour:
Fold in the flour gradually into the squash mixture, mixing until everything is fully combined and looks creamy.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly across the bottom.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are moistened and crumbly. This will be your delicious topping!
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the squash mixture in the baking dish.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You want to see the casserole set and the topping turn golden brown and crispy.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with any hearty main course!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy Southern Squash Casserole with its delightful crunchy topping! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini is a great substitute. You could even use a mix of both for varied flavors and textures.
Can This Casserole Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble it completely, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You may want to cover it with foil in the oven to keep the topping from getting too brown.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Gluten-Free?
Definitely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers and ensure your flour is also gluten-free. With these adjustments, you’ll still have a delicious dish!
