This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, cheesy delight! Made with fresh squash, onion, and creamy cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for any meal.
I love how it fills the house with a yummy smell while baking. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy your veggies! You can’t go wrong with that cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash gives this casserole its lovely texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works as a great substitute.
Onion: A large onion adds depth of flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, you can use shallots or skip them altogether for a milder taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for the robust flavor. For a different twist, feel free to use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for varied tastes.
Mayonnaise: This creates a creamy base. If you’d like a lighter version, sour cream or Greek yogurt can do the trick.
Buttery Cracker Crumbs: Ritz crackers are delicious here, but you can also use panko breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers for a crunchier topping.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Isn’t Watery?
A common challenge with squash casserole is ending up with excess water. Here’s how to avoid it:
- When cooking the squash and onions, boil them briefly (just 5 minutes) and then drain well. Pressing out moisture with a towel helps too!
- Mix well but be gentle to keep the squash intact. This way, they won’t release more liquid when baking.
- Don’t skip the cooking step! This pre-cooks the squash and allows it to release some moisture before it goes into the oven.
Following these tips will give you a lovely, creamy casserole without the extra water!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Topping:
- 1 cup buttery cracker crumbs (such as Ritz), divided
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll spend about 1 hour making this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Squash and Onions:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Toss in the sliced squash and finely chopped onion. Cook them together for about 5 minutes until they are tender. Once they’re done, drain the mixture well and use a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels to press out any extra moisture.
3. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked squash and onion with the mayonnaise, beaten eggs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined and looks delicious!
4. Add the Cracker Crumbs:
Gently stir in half of the buttery cracker crumbs into your mixture. This will add great texture and flavor to your casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour your cheerful mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the remaining cracker crumbs. Then, sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.
7. Bake It Up:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Let It Cool:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your cozy Southern squash casserole with cheese with family and friends!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini or even a mix of summer squashes can work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Can I Make This Casserole Without Mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. These alternatives will still keep the dish creamy and flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you prefer.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
