This Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings a smile to your face. Made with fresh squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs, it’s simply delicious!
Whenever I make this casserole, I can already hear my family asking for seconds! It’s a perfect side for any meal, and trust me, the cheesy goodness has everyone coming back for more. 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too. Just slice it similarly and follow the same preparation steps.
Onion: I often use a yellow onion for its mild sweetness. If you prefer a stronger flavor, try using a red onion. For a milder taste, skip the onion entirely or use green onions.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. However, you can swap it for Monterey Jack or a cheese blend if you like something different. Just ensure it melts well!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a nice substitute for sour cream, while you could omit the mayo if you prefer a lighter version.
Crushed Crackers: For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes. I personally love using Ritz crackers for their buttery taste!
How Do I Get My Casserole to be Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep the casserole creamy, ensure you follow the proper steps. After blanching the squash and onions, make sure to drain them really well to avoid excess water. If they’re too watery, they’ll water down your casserole and make it less creamy.
- Blanch squash and onions for only 3 minutes; you want them tender but not mushy.
- Mix wet ingredients thoroughly to coat everything evenly before adding the squash.
- Don’t skip the cheese! It keeps the dish moist as it melts.
By keeping an eye on these little details, you’ll end up with a deliciously creamy casserole every time!
Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 40–45 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at about 1 hour total before you can dig in! Perfect for a family meal or a potluck gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, and give it a light grease with cooking spray or butter so the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Blanch the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. When it’s bubbling, add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Let them cook for about 3 minutes until they’re slightly tender. This step helps bring out the flavors! After 3 minutes, drain them well and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Mixing these ingredients first ensures a nice and creamy texture in your casserole.
4. Combine the Squash and Onion:
Add the drained squash and onion into the bowl with the egg mixture. Stir everything together carefully until the squash and onion are coated evenly with the creamy mixture.
5. Add the Cheese:
Next, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. If you want, save a little to sprinkle on top later for extra cheesiness!
6. Pour Into the Dish:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish or skillet and spread it out evenly so everything cooks nicely.
7. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes with the melted butter. Mix it well, then sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes. You’re looking for it to be bubbly and the topping to be a beautiful golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s done baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set a little more! Serve warm and enjoy this deliciously cheesy southern classic as a delightful side dish!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini is a great substitute. You can even mix both types for added flavor and variety!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just uncover and cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times for any additional vegetables you add!
