This Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish loaded with delicious squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s like a hug in a casserole dish!
I love making this when I have friends over—everyone always goes back for seconds! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some veggies in. Who could resist all that cheese? 🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. If you can’t find it, zucchini works just as well. They both have a mild flavor and will blend nicely in the casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor punch. You can swap it for mild cheddar or even pepper jack for some heat. Vegan cheese is also an option if you want a dairy-free version.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: This combination adds creaminess. If you prefer lighter options, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and a light mayo version. You won’t lose creaminess!
Buttery Crackers: Ritz crackers are traditional but any buttery crackers can work. Try using Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch on top, or gluten-free crackers if needed.
How Do I Properly Cook the Squash for This Casserole?
Cooking the squash correctly is key to avoiding a soggy casserole. Here’s how you do it:
- Boil the squash and onions gently for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Drain them well, then press out as much moisture as possible. This keeps your casserole from getting watery!
- Let them cool slightly before mixing them with the other ingredients.
This step helps maintain a good texture in your dish, so don’t skip it!
Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30-40 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at about an hour before you can dig into this wonderful dish. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it so that the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the thinly sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook them for about 5 minutes; we want them tender but not mushy. After cooking, drain them well and use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to press out any excess moisture. This step is important to prevent a watery casserole!
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, add the drained squash and onion mixture. Then, add the eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and looks creamy!
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly; it’s your base for this cheesy delight.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the crushed buttery crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until nicely combined. Sprinkle this crumbly topping over the squash mixture, making sure to cover it evenly.
6. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. The smell will be heavenly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Then, scoop it onto plates and enjoy this creamy, cheesy Southern favorite!
FAQ for Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
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 mixing it into the casserole. This helps to maintain the desired texture.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt. It will add a similar creaminess with a bit of tang, making it a healthier alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven—just add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute eggs with a flax or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), use plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream, and opt for dairy-free cheese options!
