There’s something about Southern Squash Casserole that just feels like home. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, buttery crunch that makes every bite pure comfort food bliss. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a big holiday feast, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why this classic casserole has been a staple at Southern tables for generations!
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Why You’ll Love Southern Squash Casserole
This dish isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating cozy, nostalgic moments around the table. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for a holiday feast, potluck, or even a weeknight dinner. It pairs beautifully with just about anything!
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Quick and Easy: No complicated steps—just slice, sauté, mix, and bake. Anyone can master this recipe!
Customizable: Love a little spice? Add a pinch of cayenne. Want extra crunch? Toss in some crispy bacon bits or toasted pecans.
Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, creamy goodness topped with a crispy, buttery finish.
Ingredients
Here’s what makes this casserole so irresistible:
Yellow Squash: The heart of the dish! Tender, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor.
Onion: Adds a savory depth that balances the natural sweetness of the squash.
Butter: Because everything’s better with butter! It brings richness and flavor to the dish.
Eggs: Help bind everything together and give the casserole structure.
Sour Cream: Adds a creamy tang that enhances the flavor and keeps the casserole moist.
Cheddar Cheese: Because what’s a Southern casserole without cheese? Melty, gooey, and full of flavor.
Crackers or Panko: Crushed crackers (like Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs create that irresistible crispy topping.
Milk: A splash of milk helps create the perfect creamy texture.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic powder to bring out all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Sauté the Squash & Onions: In a large skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash and onions, cooking until they’re soft and lightly golden.
Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, shredded cheese, milk, and seasonings until smooth.
Combine Everything: Fold the sautéed squash and onions into the creamy mixture, stirring until well coated.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Add the Topping: Crush some crackers or use panko breadcrumbs, then mix them with melted butter. Sprinkle this crispy topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake to Perfection: Pop it in the oven and bake until golden and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy: Let it cool slightly before digging in. That first warm, cheesy bite is worth the wait!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 250
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Southern Squash Casserole
This dish is as versatile as it gets! Here are some perfect pairings:
Holiday Feasts: A must-have at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner.
BBQ Nights: Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or ribs.
Casual Weeknight Dinner: Serve it alongside roasted meats or a simple salad for a comforting meal.
Potluck Star: Bring it to a gathering, and watch it disappear fast!
For extra flair, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving.
Additional Tips
Make It Ahead: Prep everything in advance and refrigerate overnight. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake!
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the casserole without the topping, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight, add the topping, and bake as usual.
Want More Crunch? Try mixing crushed cornflakes or chopped pecans into the topping for an extra crispy bite.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
A1: Absolutely! Zucchini works well, though it has a slightly different texture and taste.
Q2: Can I make this casserole without eggs?
A2: Yes! You can substitute eggs with a little extra sour cream or a spoonful of mayo for binding.
Q3: What’s the best cheese to use?
A3: Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in parmesan, Monterey Jack, or even smoked gouda for extra flavor.
Q4: How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery?
A4: Make sure to sauté the squash well to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole.
Q5: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A5: Yes! Cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken all make great additions.
Q6: What crackers work best for the topping?
A6: Ritz crackers are the Southern classic, but you can use saltines, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed pretzels.
Q7: Can I make this dairy-free?
A7: Yes! Use dairy-free butter, sour cream, and cheese substitutes to make it dairy-free.
Q8: How do I reheat leftovers?
A8: Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
Q9: Can I make this spicy?
A9: Sure! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, and cheesy side dish that brings everyone to the table, Southern Squash Casserole is the answer. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish delivers classic Southern charm in every bite. So grab some fresh squash, get baking, and enjoy a dish that’s been loved for generations!
Print
Southern Squash Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Squash Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish made with tender yellow squash, onions, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s an easy way to use up extra summer squash and will quickly become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 6 cups yellow squash (sliced 1/4-inch thick)
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (coarsely crushed)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced squash and chopped onions, seasoning with salt and cracked black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly, until tender.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the cooked squash and onion mixture and stir well to combine.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in the beaten eggs until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the squash mixture into a 9-inch square baking dish.
- In a small glass bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the crushed Ritz crackers to the melted butter and stir to coat.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of heat by omitting the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 369 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 120mg