This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Made with fresh squash and gooey cheese, it’s comforting and full of flavor. It’s easy to whip up for any family meal!
Who doesn’t love a dish that brings everyone together? I like to serve it with some crusty bread on the side. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds—it’s just that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This dish shines with fresh yellow squash. You can swap it for zucchini or a mix of both if you like! Just remember to remove excess moisture as it helps with the casserole’s texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is key for flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use a reduced-fat cheese or try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder taste!
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you want something with a little tang and extra protein.
Mayonnaise: While mayonnaise adds richness, you can skip it entirely or use an avocado spread for a healthier twist. It’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for the Casserole?
A great texture in this casserole comes from properly preparing the squash. To avoid a watery dish, salting and draining the squash is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- After slicing the squash, place it in a colander and sprinkle with salt.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This draws moisture out.
- Gently press or pat the squash dry with paper towels before adding it to the mix.
This simple step makes a big difference in achieving a nice, firm casserole that’s not soggy!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (such as Ritz crackers)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake. So, around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes in total. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash and thinly slice the yellow squash. Place the slices in a colander and sprinkle a little salt over them. Let them sit for about 10 minutes; this will help draw out moisture. After that, gently squeeze or pat the squash dry with paper towels to ensure your casserole isn’t watery.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared squash with the chopped onion, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula for even cooking.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery mixture evenly over the top of your casserole for a perfect crunchy topping.
6. Bake:
If you like, sprinkle a bit of paprika on top for an extra pop of color. Now, bake the casserole uncovered for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This delicious Southern squash casserole is best enjoyed warm and is sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
While fresh squash is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen squash in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, replace the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt, and use a dairy-free mayonnaise. Make sure to check the labels for unsweetened products!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the cover and put it straight in the preheated oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the topping isn’t as crispy, you can pop it under the broiler for a minute or two to crisp it back up!
