This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is a cozy dish that brings comfort to the table. It’s loaded with tender squash, cheese, and a crispy topping that everyone will love!
I enjoy making it for family gatherings since it’s so simple to whip up. Plus, the kids never complain when they see that cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! If you can’t find it, zucchini can be a good substitute. They have a similar texture and will still taste great in this dish.
Onion: I use a medium onion for that nice flavor balance. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it or use green onions instead for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a delicious flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, try using a reduced-fat cheese or substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
Sour Cream: Sour cream gives creaminess. Plain Greek yogurt works as a healthier substitute, adding a tangy flavor.
Crackers: Buttery crackers give a nice crunch on top. You can also use breadcrumbs or panko crumbs for a different texture, or even crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option!
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Is Creamy and Not Dry?
To get that perfect creamy texture, it’s important to balance the ingredients right. Start by properly draining your blanched squash and onions. Too much water can make your casserole soggy.
- Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones until just combined. Over-mixing can dry out the casserole.
- When combining the squash and onion with the batter, fold gently to keep the mixture fluffy.
Keep an eye on the baking time too. Overbaking will dry it out, so check for doneness around the 40-minute mark. You want it set and golden, but still creamy inside!
Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, plus 40-45 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at about an hour to whip up this delicious casserole that serves around 6-8 people! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Blanch the Vegetables:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add your sliced yellow squash and chopped onion, and blanch them for about 5 minutes until they’re slightly tender. Once done, drain them well and set them aside to cool for a moment.
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything together until it forms a nice, smooth batter.
4. Combine Squash and Batter:
Gently fold the drained squash and onions into the batter mixture. Make sure everything is well combined but don’t overmix; we want it fluffy!
5. Pour into Baking Dish:
Pour the squash and batter mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly across the dish so it cooks evenly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are nicely coated. This is where your casserole will get its delicious crispy topping!
7. Add Topping and Bake:
Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the squash mixture evenly. Then, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting Southern squash casserole warm—it’s bound to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole. This helps prevent a watery dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It will add creaminess and a slight tang without changing the flavor too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.
