This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! It combines fresh squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs for a tasty side dish.
I love how simple it is to whip up, and it’s perfect for family dinners. Trust me, the cheese gets everyone coming back for seconds! Plus, who could resist that crispy top? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Fresh yellow squash gives a lovely flavor and texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well as a substitute and keeps the dish vibrant.
Onion: A small onion adds a nice sweetness when cooked. If you prefer a milder taste, use green onions or shallots. You can skip the onion altogether if desired!
Cheddar Cheese: I like using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses can add creaminess too. Remember to shred cheese yourself for better melting.
Mayonnaise: This adds moisture and creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, giving a similar texture with some tanginess.
Crackers/Breadcrumbs: Buttery crackers like Ritz deliver a delicious crunch. For a healthier spin, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or gluten-free options. Even crushed cornflakes can work great!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture in a Casserole?
The key to a great casserole lies in the texture of the squash and the right baking time. Here’s how to ensure your dish comes out creamy and not watery:
- After boiling the squash, drain and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Mixing the squash with other ingredients while it’s still warm helps everything blend nicely.
- Baking until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set is crucial, so keep an eye on it!
Let it cool a bit before serving; this allows it to firm up nicely. Enjoy your delicious meal! 🍽️
Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz) or plain breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 to 35 minutes to bake, for a total of roughly 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any gathering or family meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Squash:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. Toss in the sliced yellow squash and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s just tender. Drain the squash well, then pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess water. This helps keep the casserole from getting watery!
3. Mix it All Together:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and eggs. Mix everything until well combined—it’s going to smell amazing!
4. Season & Prepare:
Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it) to the mixture. Stir gently to combine all those delicious flavors. Once mixed, pour this into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top so it bakes evenly.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter until they’re all coated. This will give a nice crunchy topping to your casserole.
6. Assemble and Bake:
Sprinkle that buttery cracker mix evenly over the squash mixture in the baking dish. Then pop the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. Keep an eye on it towards the end—every oven is a little different!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up a bit—perfect for cutting into squares.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Southern squash casserole, a true comfort food classic! Everyone will ask for seconds! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole. Frozen squash tends to have more moisture, so pat it dry to avoid a watery casserole.
How Can I Make This Casserole Healthier?<\/h3>
To lighten up this dish, you can use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a reduced-fat version for a healthier option!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?<\/h3>
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be coming from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?<\/h3>
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
