This Easy Southern Cheesy Squash Casserole combines tender squash with plenty of cheese, making it super creamy and tasty. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal!
I love serving this during family gatherings. Everyone’s always asking for seconds! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that I don’t mind making it again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star of this dish. If you can’t find it, zucchini can be used as a tasty alternative, providing a similar texture.
Onion: I love the flavor of yellow onion, but you can use white or even green onions for a milder taste. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder works as a quick substitute!
Creamy Base: The mix of sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheeses creates the creamy goodness. For a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or use low-fat mayonnaise.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor, while mozzarella provides stretch. Feel free to use all cheddar or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. Vegan cheese can also work if you want a dairy-free version.
Crackers: Buttery crackers add crunch. If you don’t have them, try crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs. They will change the texture but still taste great!
How Do You Cook Squash Without Making It Soggy?
Cooking squash for this casserole can be tricky. To keep it tender but not watery, make sure to sauté it just enough to soften but not mush. Here’s what to do:
- Start by cooking the onions until soft. Then, add the squash and keep the heat on medium.
- Cook the squash for about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, but allow some pieces to brown slightly for flavor.
- The goal is to let the moisture reduce while still keeping that nice texture!
Remember, the baking process will also help evaporate any leftover moisture, so don’t worry if it seems a bit underdone before going in the oven.
Easy Southern Cheesy Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or Ritz crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take you about 15 minutes to prep and another 30-35 minutes to bake. So in just about an hour, you’ll have a delicious casserole hot out of the oven, ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, go ahead and lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet to prepare for the casserole.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This will build a lovely base flavor for your casserole.
3. Cook the Squash:
Add the sliced yellow squash into the skillet with the onions. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. You want the squash to be tender but still have a little crunch. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic or onion powder if you’re using it. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Pour and Spread the Mixture:
Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish or skillet and spread it out evenly. Don’t worry about making it perfect; it will all come together when it bakes!
6. Top with Crackers:
Now the fun part: sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of your casserole. This creates a delicious crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
7. Bake It Up:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, with the topping turning a lovely golden brown color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Southern squash casserole alongside your favorite meals!
This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and has a delightful crunchy topping that pairs perfectly with Southern-style meals. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ – Easy Southern Cheesy Squash Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen squash, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before cooking. You may also want to sauté it a bit longer to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes since it will be cold from the refrigerator.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience!
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! While the combination of cheddar and mozzarella is delicious, feel free to experiment. Monterrey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even a blend of Italian cheeses will work nicely as substitutes!
