This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, cheesy delight! It combines tender squash with creamy goodness and a crispy topping. Perfect for any family meal or gathering!
I love how easy this dish is to prepare and how it fills the house with a yummy smell. Plus, the cheese makes everything better. What’s not to love about that? 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for firm, bright yellow squash. If yellow squash is not available, zucchini can work as a substitute, though it has a different taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a strong flavor that I really enjoy. If you prefer a milder taste, you could use medium cheddar or even Monterey Jack cheese. For a creamy twist, try using cream cheese mixed in!
Sour Cream: It brings richness to the casserole. If you want a lighter version, you can replace it with Greek yogurt. It won’t change the texture much and will still taste great.
Crackers: I love using Ritz crackers for that buttery crunch. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, crushed gluten-free crackers or panko crumbs would fit the bill. Just adjust the quantity as necessary for texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Too Watery?
Cook the squash and onions lightly before adding them to the casserole mix. This helps release excess moisture. After boiling, make sure to drain them thoroughly and press gently to remove any excess water.
- **Boil Timeout:** Keep the boiling time to about 5 minutes so the squash stays tender without losing too much moisture.
- **Pressing Technique:** After draining, press down lightly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to absorb extra liquid.
Combining this with the creaminess from the sour cream and eggs will give you a casserole that is not only creamy but also holds its shape well when served!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce (optional for slight heat)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz) or crushed saltine crackers
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 30 to 40 minutes of baking time. Make sure to allow an additional 5 minutes for the casserole to sit before serving. In total, you can expect around 1 hour of your time for a deliciously baked dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole!
2. Prepare the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, just until the squash is tender but still holds its shape. Drain well and gently press the mixture with a spoon or fork to remove any extra moisture. This helps prevent a watery casserole!
3. Make the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the two eggs. Then, add in the sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika or cayenne if you want a bit of heat. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked squash and onion mixture into the egg mixture, gently folding in the shredded cheddar and optional mozzarella cheese until just mixed.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the cheesy squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so it cooks consistently.
6. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture over the top of the casserole for that delicious crispy crust we love!
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until it’s bubbly and the topping is a lovely golden brown.
8. Let It Rest:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set a little more, making it easier to dish out!
Enjoy this warm, cheesy Southern Squash Casserole with your family and friends. It’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, you can also use zucchini as a substitute. Just slice it thinly and follow the same cooking instructions.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It adds creaminess without sacrificing flavor, and it can be a bit healthier too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Just cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
