This Southern squash casserole is pure comfort in a dish! With fresh squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping, it’s hearty and tasty. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!
Honestly, who can resist that golden, crispy top? I always sneak a piece while serving—it’s just too good! Pair it with cornbread, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key here, as it has a lovely texture and flavor. If you can’t find it, zucchini works well as a substitute, though the taste will be slightly different.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the casserole. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or sour cream if you prefer a tangy flavor.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. You could swap these for your favorites—pepper jack for a bit of spice or mozzarella for milder tastes.
Crushed Butter Crackers: These are used for the crunchy topping. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free crackers, or even breadcrumbs!
Garlic Powder: This is optional but highly recommended for added depth. Fresh minced garlic is another option if you prefer.
How Can I Ensure My Squash Casserole Isn’t Watery?
Excess moisture can make your casserole soggy, so here’s how to avoid that:
- **Prep the Squash:** After boiling, it’s important to drain and pat the squash and onion dry. This step is crucial!
- **Bake it Uncovered:** Baking uncovered allows moisture to evaporate while helping to get that nice golden topping.
- **Check Consistency:** Before adding to the casserole, ensure your squash mixture is thick enough. If it’s too runny, you might consider adding some breadcrumbs or an extra egg for binding.
Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious, satisfying squash casserole every time!
The Best Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups fresh yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz crackers)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 30-40 minutes for baking, making it easy to whip up a delicious dish in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Cooking the Squash:
Now, take a large pot and bring some water to a boil. Add in the sliced squash and chopped onion, cooking them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender but still firm. Once done, drain the veggies and pat them dry with paper towels to twirl away any extra moisture.
3. Mixing the Filling:
In a big mixing bowl, beat the two large eggs. Then, add the mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese (if you’d like extra richness), salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
4. Combining the Ingredients:
Gently fold in the drained squash and onion mixture into the cheese mixture, being careful not to mash them too much. You want to maintain some texture!
5. Assembling the Casserole:
Pour the combined mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly to cover the bottom.
6. Preparing the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. This will create that yummy, crunchy topping! Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
7. Baking to Perfection:
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Look for that gorgeous golden-brown topping and bubbling edges to know it’s ready!
8. Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before diving in. This helps the casserole set up nicely!
This Southern squash casserole is creamy, cheesy, with a perfect crunchy topping—a true comfort food favorite! Enjoy your delicious creation with family or friends, and watch it disappear!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing it into the casserole. Excess moisture from frozen squash can make your dish watery, so pat it dry with paper towels after thawing!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the cheeses with non-dairy alternatives like cashew or almond-based cheese. You can also use a dairy-free mayonnaise and ensure that your crackers are dairy-free as well.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring it’s warmed through before serving. If you’re reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent the topping from burning.
