This Classic Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish packed with fresh squash and a buttery crumb topping. It’s comfort food that feels like a hug on a plate!
Making this casserole is super simple, which is great because you’ll want to share it with everyone. And come on, who could resist that crispy topping? It’s a true crowd-pleaser! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This dish shines with fresh yellow squash. If you can’t find it, zucchini can be a good substitute, or you could use a mix of both for added color and flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, sweet onions work wonderfully too. Green onions can also be used for a fresh twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over salt. If you want to keep it lighter, you can substitute half the butter with olive oil, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a healthier option and will give a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its rich flavor. You can experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for some added kick!
Crushed Butter Crackers: Ritz crackers are a classic choice, but if you have dietary restrictions, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can work too for a crunchy topping.
How Do I Prepare the Squash for the Casserole?
Preparing the squash properly sets the stage for your casserole. Start by slicing the squash evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Boiling them lightly softens the squash and onions, bringing out their flavors without making them mushy.
- Boil the slices for 5 minutes just until tender but still firm. This makes sure they don’t get too mushy in the oven.
- Drain well! Excess moisture can lead to a watery casserole, so press out the water gently before mixing.
The right preparation makes all the difference in texture and taste! Happy cooking! 😊
Classic Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed butter crackers (such as Ritz)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time. You will need an additional 30-35 minutes for baking, making it a total of about 50-55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled. Take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little extra melted butter.
2. Cook the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring some water to a boil. Add your sliced yellow squash and chopped onion, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they become just tender—this helps them blend nicely in the casserole. Remember to drain the mixture well, gently pressing out any excess moisture to keep your casserole from being watery.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash and onion with the melted butter, sour cream, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. The more you mix, the better it blends!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This way each bite will be filled with that delicious goodness!
5. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with about 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This creates a yummy topping. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the squash mixture in the baking dish. Trust me, this crispy topping is what makes this casserole special!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time for the oven! Bake your casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the topping turns a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm. Serve it as a side dish or even as a main dish, and watch everyone go back for seconds!
Enjoy your Classic Southern Squash Casserole! It’s a comforting favorite that’s sure to delight!
FAQ for Classic Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help maintain the right texture of your casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works wonderfully and will give you a similar creamy texture with a slight tang. You can also use buttermilk or cottage cheese blended until smooth if preferred.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. It may require a few extra minutes to bake through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option!
