A comforting and classic Southern side dish, this squash casserole is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery cracker crust. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a simple family dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 1–1.5 lbs)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers (such as Ritz), crushed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp melted butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Squash
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
Step 2: Drain the Squash
Drain the squash in a colander and let it cool slightly. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press out excess moisture – this step ensures your casserole isn’t watery.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, sautéed onions, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper.
Step 5: Combine Filling
Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Step 7: Assemble
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 8: Spread
Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 9: Add Topping
Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the squash mixture, pressing it down slightly to help it adhere.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comfort Food Classic: This casserole is the epitome of Southern comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to follow for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- Great for Using Squash: If you have an abundance of yellow squash from your garden or the farmers market, this is a delicious way to use it up.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or seasonings.
- Perfect for Sharing: This casserole is ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or a hearty meatloaf.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Offer a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.
Tips:
- Don’t Skip Draining the Squash: Removing excess moisture is crucial for preventing a watery casserole.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Add a Kick: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the squash mixture.
- Toast the Topping: If the topping isn’t browning enough, broil it for a minute or two at the end of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion:
Southern Squash Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of yellow squash, the richness of cheese, and the satisfying crunch of a buttery cracker topping. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of the South.
Q&A:
- Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I make this casserole without sour cream?
- If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
- Can I add meat to this casserole?
- Absolutely! Cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage would be delicious additions to the squash mixture.
- How do I store leftover squash casserole?
- Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Can I freeze squash casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze it. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the topping may change slightly after freezing.
