This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! With layers of tender squash, cheesy goodness, and a crispy topping, it’s the perfect comfort food.
Whenever I make this, my friends can’t help but go back for seconds! It’s so cheesy and creamy, and that crispy topping just makes it better. I can’t resist it! 🧀
The best part is how easy it is to whip up—just mix, bake, and enjoy. It makes a great side for any meal or even a tasty main dish on its own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a good substitute. It has a similar texture and will still taste great in the casserole.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are the best combo for flavor and creaminess. If you prefer something different, try pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a smoky taste.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and a bit of tang. Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute if you want a healthier option. It works the same and keeps the dish creamy!
Mayonnaise: Mayo adds richness and moisture. You can use plain yogurt or avocado for a lighter version without losing creaminess.
Bacon: While optional, bacon brings a delicious flavor. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon or use smoked paprika to add a similar smoky taste!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Casserole Texture?
Getting the right texture in your squash casserole is key for a delightful experience. Here’s how to ensure it turns out great:
- **Drain the Squash:** After cooking the squash, be sure to drain it well and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step prevents a soggy casserole.
- **Mix Carefully:** When combining the ingredients, be gentle so you don’t break up the squash too much. You want to maintain some texture.
- **Topping Crunch:** The crushed crackers or breadcrumbs provide a nice crunch. Make sure the butter is evenly mixed with the crumbs for that golden crust.
- **Let it Rest:** After baking, allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes helps it set. This makes serving easier and enhances the flavor!
Enjoy baking this cozy dish, and feel free to adjust it to your preferences. Happy cooking!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, as preferred)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional for added flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (such as Ritz crackers)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30-35 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to have this cozy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating and Preparing the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cooking the Squash:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s slightly tender but still has some bite—don’t let it get mushy! Drain the squash well, then set it aside to cool. To remove even more moisture, you can gently squeeze the squash using a clean towel or paper towels.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained squash, chopped onion, sour cream, mayonnaise, eggs, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using bacon for extra flavor, fold it into the mixture as well. Stir everything together until it’s well combined—this will create a delicious cheesy filling!
4. Assembling the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom of the dish.
5. Adding the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Mix well so that all the crumbs are coated in butter. Then, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a delightful crunchy topping. If you like, add a sprinkle of paprika on top to give it a nice color and extra flavor.
6. Baking:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown and the casserole to be bubbly all around.
7. Cooling and Serving:
After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This cooling time helps the casserole firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
8. Enjoying Your Cozy Dish:
Serve the squash casserole warm and enjoy its cheesy, comforting flavors! It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, fried chicken, or a fresh green salad. Let the deliciousness begin!
Enjoy your delicious Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese! 🍽️
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw it first and drain off any excess moisture. Frozen squash tends to release more water when cooked, so make sure to squeeze out the moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
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 microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You may want to cover it with foil to keep the topping from getting too brown.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer to avoid mayonnaise, you can use plain Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute. Both will add creaminess without compromising flavor. However, using yogurt will give a slightly tangier taste compared to mayonnaise.
