This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and cheesy dish that features fresh squash and gooey cheese. It’s simple to make and always a hit at family gatherings!
Honestly, what’s not to love about a creamy veggie bake? I could eat this every day! Pair it with some cornbread and you’ll feel right at home. 😋
I love how this casserole is easy to whip up with just a few ingredients. It’s a tasty way to get your veggies in, and leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Summer Squash: Fresh is best! You can substitute with zucchini if that’s all you have on hand, or mix both for extra color and flavor.
Onion: I like using yellow onions for their sweetness, but you can also try shallots or green onions for a milder taste.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This adds a nice kick! If you’re looking for a milder cheese, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese is a good alternative for dairy-free diets.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace both for a healthier option! It will give a lovely creaminess while cutting down on fat.
Crushed Crackers: Instead of buttery crackers, you can use gluten-free crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
How Do I Get My Squash Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the squash just right is key. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious texture:
- Cut the squash thin; this helps it cook evenly and quickly.
- Sauté them in a skillet until slightly softened. This step reduces excess moisture, keeping your casserole from getting soggy.
- Drain any extra liquid after sautéing to avoid a watery dish.
Easy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow summer squash, sliced thin
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30-35 minutes for baking. So, in just about 50 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy dish ready to share!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks to it.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced squash and chopped onion for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be slightly softened. Once they’re ready, drain any extra liquid and let them cool a bit.
3. Mix The Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them well. Then add the mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder and herbs. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled squash and onion mixture to your mayo mixture. Toss in 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until well combined.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your casserole.
7. Finish with Cheese:
Top off the cracker layer with the remaining shredded cheese for an extra cheesy crust!
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes. Then serve warm and enjoy this comforting Southern dish!
FAQ for Easy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove any excess moisture before sautéing, as this will help prevent your casserole from becoming watery.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise or Sour Cream?
If you’re out of mayonnaise or sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It adds creaminess and a nice tang. You can use plain yogurt in equal amounts.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the squash mixture. For a milder flavor, keep the garlic powder optional or use less of it.
Can This Casserole Be Made in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
