This Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish, packed with fresh squash and topped with gooey cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner!
Just a heads up, once you smell it baking, you’ll be tempted to sneak bites. It’s so good that even squash haters might become fans! 😊 Let’s just say, seconds are very likely!
I love how simple this casserole is to make. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s a great way to get in those veggies without feeling like you’re eating salad. Yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. If you’re looking for a substitution, zucchini works just as well. Both have a similar texture and flavor, so you won’t miss out!
Onion: I suggest using a yellow onion for its sweetness. If you want a milder taste, go for green onions or even shallots. They’ll add a nice flavor without being too strong.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives this dish its rich, cheesy goodness. You could mix it up with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor twist!
Ritz Crackers: These add a delightful crunch on top. If you’re out, any plain salted crackers will do, or just use more breadcrumbs. Gluten-free options are widely available too!
Butter: For a lighter option, you can use olive oil or even a vegan butter substitute if you’re looking to avoid dairy.
How Do I Get My Squash to Be Tender Without Losing Flavor?
Boiling the squash and onion is key to softening them without making them mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with salted water at a rolling boil. This adds flavor!
- Add the squash and onion, and keep an eye on them. They only need about 5 minutes—enough to soften but not turn to mush!
- Once tender, drain them well, then press out any extra moisture with a towel. This keeps your casserole from becoming watery later.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your casserole is rich and flavorful without any sogginess!
Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced (about 3 medium squash)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 25 crackers)
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30-40 minutes for baking. So, you’re looking at roughly 55 minutes in total! It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal or to impress guests at dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash and Onions:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and the finely chopped onion. Cook them together for about 5 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain the mixture well and gently press out any excess water using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step helps to keep your casserole from becoming watery!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the melted butter, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if you’d like), and mayonnaise (for added creaminess if you choose to use it). Mix everything well until all ingredients are nicely combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your squash mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
5. Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. This mix will give your casserole a delightful crunch!
6. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the squash mixture. Now it’s ready to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on the top.
7. Let It Cool:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This little wait will help it hold together when you serve it up.
Enjoy this delicious, cheesy Southern squash casserole as a comforting side dish that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini is a great substitute. You can even mix both for added flavor and variety!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This casserole is already vegetarian, but you can ensure it’s free from animal products by using plant-based butter and cheese substitutes if desired. Just check that your crackers are also vegetarian-friendly, as some may contain cheese or other animal products.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
