This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm hug on a plate! Made with fresh squash, creamy cheese, and a sprinkle of crunchy topping, it’s super comforting and delicious.
This dish always reminds me of family gatherings. It’s so easy to whip up, and I can’t resist sneaking spoonfuls before it hits the table. Perfect for any dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can also use zucchini if that’s what you have. Both have a similar texture, but keep in mind zucchini might give a slightly different flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: These provide a delightful creaminess. You can use any cheese you prefer, like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist. Vegan cheese can work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Butter: If you want to make this recipe a bit lighter, you can substitute half the butter with olive oil. Just a little will still give it that nice richness!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative to sour cream. It will add protein while still keeping the creaminess!
Crushed Crackers: Ritz are popular, but feel free to use any buttery crackers. You can even use breadcrumbs for a different texture, or gluten-free options if needed.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Squash in My Casserole?
Cooking the squash with the onions is a key step! Here’s how to do it right:
- Slice your yellow squash thinly; this helps them cook evenly.
- Cook them over medium heat with butter until almost all moisture evaporates, about 10 minutes. This helps prevent a watery casserole!
- Let the mixture cool slightly before adding it to the egg and cheese mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Taking your time with this step is essential! It ensures a flavorful and well-set casserole.
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), divided
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at about 55-60 minutes until it’s ready to serve. It’s a straightforward process, making it perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and butter it well. This will help prevent sticking.
2. Cooking the Squash and Onion:
In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Cook them together until the squash is tender and most moisture has evaporated, which will take about 10 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool a little.
3. Mixing the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large bowl, grab your three large eggs and beat them until they’re mixed well. Then, stir in the sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, black pepper, and the optional garlic powder for a flavor boost. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Folding in the Cooked Vegetables:
Now, take your cooled squash and onion mixture and add it to the bowl with the egg and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything well.
5. Pouring Into the Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that every bite is filled with cheesy goodness!
6. Preparing the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter. This will create a nice, crunchy topping. Sprinkle this crumb mixture evenly over your casserole in the baking dish. If you want, you can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
7. Baking the Casserole:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll want the top to be golden brown and the casserole to be set in the middle.
8. Letting It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole hold together when you scoop it out.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy casserole that brings cozy comfort to your table!
FAQ About Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before cooking. This helps avoid a watery casserole. Sauté it briefly to remove any remaining moisture before combining it with the other ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point just before baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. It will also add a nice creaminess while still keeping the flavor rich. Another option is to use cream cheese, but be sure to soften it first to ensure it blends well.
