This Classic Southern Squash Casserole is creamy and cheesy with a crispy topping. It’s a perfect dish to warm your heart and fill your tummy!
Making it is a breeze! Just mix fresh squash with cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices. It’s like a big hug from your grandmother. 🍽️
I love serving this casserole at gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I can always count on leftovers to brighten my lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star of this dish, bringing a light, sweet flavor. If you can’t find it, zucchini can be a great substitute. You might consider using a mix of both for added color!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and a slight tang. You could use Greek yogurt for a healthier take, or buttermilk if you prefer a lighter consistency. Both options work well!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a rich, bold flavor. If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese. For a fun twist, mix in a little pepper jack for some heat!
Crushed Crackers: Buttery crackers lend a great crunch. You can use breadcrumbs instead, or even panko for an extra crispy topping. Just remember to adjust the amount slightly to match your preferred texture.
How Do You Ensure the Best Texture for Your Casserole?
Getting the right texture in your squash casserole is crucial. First, draining the squash is key. After boiling, don’t skip pressing out excess moisture—this prevents a soggy dish. Use a clean towel or paper towels to soak up any liquid.
- Make sure to chop the onions finely; this helps them blend well with the squash mix.
- When mixing in the egg and cheese, fold gently to keep some volume. This keeps the casserole light and airy.
- For the topping, evenly spreading the crushed crackers helps create an even, crispy layer. Adding a bit of melted butter makes it extra delicious!
These steps will help you achieve a casserole that’s creamy inside with a perfectly golden, crunchy top. Enjoy your cooking!
Classic Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups thinly sliced yellow squash (about 4-5 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz crackers)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. So, you can have this comforting dish ready in under an hour! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, you can grease your casserole dish to prepare for the delicious mixture!
2. Prepare the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add in the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion, cooking them until they soften slightly, about 5 minutes. Once they’re tender, drain well. To remove any excess moisture, press the squash mixture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs. Add in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you choose to use it. Give it all a good mix until combined smoothly.
4. Combine the Squash and Egg Mixture:
Now let’s bring it all together! Fold the drained squash and onion into the egg mixture, making sure everything is coated nicely.
5. Pour into the Dish:
Once well mixed, pour the squash mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly to ensure all parts bake nicely.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with a bit of melted butter or extra cheese if you’d like. This will make a tasty topping! Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of paprika for an extra pop of color.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for the casserole to be set and the top to turn a beautiful golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
When it’s done baking, take it out and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Enjoy your warm, creamy, and crispy Squash Casserole as a delightful side dish to any Southern meal!
There you have it! This classic recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy squash casserole with a crisp, buttery cracker topping—comfort food at its finest!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe. This way, your casserole will maintain the right texture without becoming soggy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. You could also substitute some of the butter with olive oil and use whole wheat crackers instead of buttery ones. This will reduce calories while still keeping the flavor!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake it, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave single portions for a quick meal!
