This Southern squash casserole is a cozy dish packed with fresh squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping. It’s like a warm hug in a baking dish!
Honestly, it’s so good that you might want to eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! I love making it for family gatherings; everyone can’t resist asking for seconds. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute zucchini if you prefer, or mix both for added color and flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even Monterey Jack.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess to the casserole. Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you want a healthier option!
Ritz Crackers: These provide a lovely crunch. Feel free to use any buttery cracker; crushed cornflakes also work well for the topping!
How Do I Get My Squash Just Right?
Cooking the squash properly is key to avoiding a soggy casserole. Here’s how to get it just right!
- Boil the squash briefly for about 5 minutes to soften it, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water. You can even pat it dry with a towel.
- Let it cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients. This helps maintain the texture of the casserole.
The Best Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30-40 minutes to bake. So, you can have it ready in about an hour, perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the sliced yellow squash and cook it for about 5 minutes until it’s tender. Drain the squash well and let it sit to cool for a moment.
3. Mix Ingredients Together:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, beaten eggs, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it’s well blended.
4. Assemble Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure a good bake!
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir to coat the crackers in butter, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to dish out. Enjoy this delicious Southern classic with your family and friends!
FAQ: The Best Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing it with the other ingredients. You might want to squeeze out extra moisture using a clean kitchen towel for the best texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if you’re starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or you can use an equal amount of sour cream if you want to maintain the creamy texture without mayonnaise.
