This Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings. With tender squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping, it’s simply delightful!
Honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese? I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or just grabbing a big spoonful for myself. It’s a crowd favorite that disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too. The flavors will be similar, and it still gives that nice texture.
Onion: Sweet onions can enhance the casserole’s flavor. If onions aren’t your favorite, you could skip them or use green onions for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives fantastic flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese is fine, but remember that flavor might be milder. Feel free to try Monterey Jack for a different twist!
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: If you’re watching your calories, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It adds creaminess and tang without skipping on flavor.
Buttery Cracker Crumbs: In a pinch, you can use breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter instead. It’s a great alternative, and you can also season them for extra flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Squash Is Tender but Not Mushy?
Perfectly tender squash can be tricky! Start by sautéing the squash and onions for just five minutes. You want them to soften a little but not lose their shape when baking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Add sliced squash and chopped onion, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until they are slightly tender but still firm—about 5 minutes. Drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
Getting this step right helps keep your casserole from becoming mushy and maintains a great texture! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Topping:
- 1 cup buttery cracker crumbs (such as Ritz crackers, crushed)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30-35 minutes for baking. In total, you are looking at just under an hour from start to finish—perfect for a quick family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Veggies:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large skillet and add your sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5 minutes—just enough to make them slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain any excess moisture so the casserole doesn’t get soggy later.
2. Mixing the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed squash and onions with the mayonnaise, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
3. Assembling the Casserole:
Grease a baking dish or cast iron skillet with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking. Then, transfer your creamy squash mixture into the prepared dish so it spreads evenly across the bottom.
4. Creating the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix your crushed buttery cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir well until all crumbs are coated with butter. This will create that delicious crunchy topping we all love!
5. Topping and Baking:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the squash mixture in your baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for it to be bubbly and for the topping to turn a beautiful golden brown.
6. Cooling and Serving:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve. Then it’s ready to enjoy!
Dig in and savor this cheesy comfort food made right in your own kitchen. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a hearty main for a light meal!
FAQ for Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before sautéing. This helps avoid a watery casserole. Pat the thawed squash dry with paper towels for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It offers a similar creaminess with a tangy flavor. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt for the best taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it without baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes of time if it’s cold from the fridge.
