This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s loaded with tender squash, cheesy goodness, and a crunchy topping that everyone will love!
I like to make this when I want something hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in those veggies while keeping things tasty. Who knew squash could be this fun? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This dish shines with fresh yellow squash. If that’s not available, zucchini is a great substitute! Just chop it similarly and follow the same steps.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for added flavor, but feel free to mix with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a little kick!
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess, but if you want a lighter option, swap it for Greek yogurt. It gives a nice tang without losing texture.
Buttery Crackers: Ritz are the classic choice for that buttery crunch. You can use any type of cracker or even seasoned bread crumbs if you’re looking for something different.
Garlic Powder: While optional, I recommend it for extra flavor. If you don’t have garlic powder, minced garlic can be used, but cut down on the amount to taste.
How Do You Get the Right Texture With the Squash?
The trick to not having soggy squash is in the cooking process. You want to soften the squash but keep some firmness.
- Boil the squash and onions just until tender, about 5 minutes. This helps them cook faster in the oven.
- Make sure to drain them well to avoid extra moisture in your casserole.
Following these steps helps achieve that perfect creamy yet sturdy texture we want in a casserole!
Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 35 to 40 minutes of baking time. With a total of about 1 hour, you can have a warm, comforting dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Squash and Onions:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add in the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions. Cook them for about 5 minutes until the squash is tender but still slightly firm. Once done, drain the vegetables well to remove any excess moisture.
3. Mix It Up:
In a mixing bowl, add the drained squash and onions. Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and milk. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour this creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to make sure it cooks uniformly.
5. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the squash casserole for a delicious crunch!
6. Bake It:
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the topping is a beautiful golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm and enjoy this comforting Southern classic with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Yes! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini makes a great substitute. Just slice it in the same way and follow the recipe as directed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before baking as usual.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use sour cream to maintain creaminess and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of milk to keep it creamy!
