This Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With tender squash, creamy goodness, and a crunchy topping, it’s comfort food at its best!
I love serving this dish at family dinners because everyone goes back for seconds. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies. Who can resist that cheesy topping, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This dish shines with fresh yellow squash which adds a lovely texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini can work too! Just keep in mind it has a different taste.
Onion: A medium onion enhances the flavor. For a milder taste, you can use green onions or even shallots. If you’re avoiding onion altogether, just skip it.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess. If you’re looking for lighter options, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It gives a similar tangy flavor and works well in casseroles.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar would also work. If you want a non-dairy option, try a vegan cheese substitute.
Snack Crackers: I use Ritz crackers for that buttery crunch! But you can swap for any other buttery crackers or even panko for a different texture.
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Onions for This Casserole?
Sautéing onions adds depth to the flavor of your casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil.
- Add the chopped onions and sprinkle a little salt to help them soften.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- This brings out their natural sweetness, which enhances the overall dish!
Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups thinly sliced yellow squash (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery snack crackers (such as Ritz crackers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to bake. So, in total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour on this dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, add a little butter or oil and heat over medium. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. They should be translucent and aromatic. Once done, take them off the heat and set aside.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced squash, sautéed onions, beaten eggs, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you like!). Mix everything together well until the squash is nicely coated with the creamy mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until every crumb is coated. This will give your casserole a deliciously crunchy topping!
6. Add the Topping and Bake:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the squash mixture in the casserole dish. Bake in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. Let It Cool:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a bit before you dive in!
Enjoy the classic, creamy, cheesy Southern squash casserole with its crunchy buttery topping! Bon Appétit! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, you can mix in or substitute with zucchini, carrots, or even spinach for a different flavor and nutrient boost. Just ensure that any vegetables you choose are thinly sliced to cook evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, simply replace the buttery snack crackers with gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free cornflakes for a similar crunch!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting from a colder temperature.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or heat in the microwave. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
