This Southern Squash Casserole is pure comfort food! With tender squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist that golden, cheesy top? It’s like a warm hug in a dish! I love making this for family gatherings—everyone comes back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Any summer squash variety, like zucchini, can be a substitute if you don’t have yellow squash on hand. Both varieties offer a similar texture.
Onion: Yellow onion works best for its sweetness but white onion can be used as well. If you want a milder flavor, try shallots instead—they add a nice touch!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for added flavor, but feel free to swap it out for Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheeses. A cheese blend gives a nice creaminess.
Sour Cream/Mayo: If you’re looking for a lighter choice, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It has a similar tang and is healthier too!
Crackers: While buttery crackers are traditional, you can use crushed tortilla chips or even breadcrumbs for a different crunch. Just add a little seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Isn’t Watery?
One common issue with squash casseroles is the excess moisture. To keep yours from being watery, be sure to follow these tips:
- Cook and drain the squash and onion thoroughly. Take a moment to pat them dry with paper towels to soak up any remaining moisture.
- Using a combination of sour cream and mayo helps to thicken and bind the mixture, preventing extra liquid.
- Let your casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This will help any remaining moisture to settle, making for a firmer texture.
The Best Southern Squash Casserole Recipe Ever
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz) or crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you can have it ready to enjoy in about 50 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little bit of butter or cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Squash and Onions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the thinly sliced yellow squash and chopped onions, and cook for around 5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of firmness. Once done, drain them well and pat dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash and onions with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you like. Give everything a good mix until it’s thoroughly blended.
4. Place in the Baking Dish:
Pour the creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure it cooks well throughout.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers (or cornflakes) with the melted butter and sprinkle in the paprika if you’re using it. Stir until the crumbs are coated, then sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole for added texture and flavor.
6. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the topping to be golden brown and the casserole bubbling. That’s when you know it’s ready!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This way, it’ll be easier to serve. Enjoy this delightful Southern squash casserole warm, and watch it disappear!
FAQ for The Best Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help keep your casserole from becoming watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for the Topping?
If you want a different texture or flavor for the topping, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of crushed crackers or cornflakes. You could even use crushed potato chips for a unique twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a bit of cheese on top before reheating for extra flavor!
