This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and cheesy delight! Loaded with fresh squash, it’s perfect for those who love comfort food with a twist of Southern charm.
I love how simple it is to throw together. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! This dish always makes me feel right at home, and the cheese pulls just steal the show! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. Zucchini could work as a substitute, but yellow squash has that sweet flavor that makes it special!
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor combined with mozzarella’s gooeyness. If you’re looking for alternatives, try gouda or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great swap if you’re watching calories; it brings a similar texture and tang.
Crushed Crackers/Cornflakes: Buttery crackers give a nice crunch. If you want a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornmeal for the topping.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Squash?
Getting the squash right is essential for this casserole. Overcooked squash can become mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring salted water to a boil before adding the squash. This adds flavor.
- Cook for just 5 minutes until slightly tender; you want it to retain a bit of bite.
- Drain it well and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Taking these steps ensures your casserole has the right texture, making every bite delightful!
Easy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetable Base:
- 4 cups fresh yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Binding Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Cheesy Goodness:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Crispy Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes (for topping)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 35-40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around an hour to have this comforting dish ready to serve. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the casserole won’t stick.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the sliced yellow squash and let it cook for about 5 minutes—just until it’s slightly tender. After that, drain the squash well and gently pat it dry with a paper towel to get rid of excess moisture.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash with the chopped onion, eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are well blended.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the mixture. Stir until everything is combined—you should see lots of cheesy goodness!
5. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Pour the squash mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers (or cornflakes) with the melted butter. Mix them well and then sprinkle this crunchy topping over the casserole for that perfect crispy finish.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up nicely. Serve warm as a delightful side dish and enjoy the taste of Southern comfort!
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
While fresh squash is preferred for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen squash in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover squash casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even corn. Just make sure they are finely chopped and cooked slightly to ensure they blend well with the casserole. Adjust the seasoning if needed!
