This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm and cheesy dish that’s sure to make anyone feel at home. It’s filled with tender squash and topped with melted cheese, creating a comforting meal!
Honestly, once you taste that cheesy goodness, you might just want to cozy up with it on the sofa! I love serving it with some crispy cornbread for a true Southern feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can use zucchini if it’s what you have on hand. They both bring a lovely texture to the casserole.
Cheeses: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor and mozzarella for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Crushed Crackers: Buttery crackers add nice crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes. It still holds the texture nicely!
Sour Cream: This gives a creamy texture. Greek yogurt works well as a substitute, adding a bit of tang!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Squash in Your Casserole?
Getting the squash just right makes all the difference. Here’s how:
- Slice the squash thinly—this helps it cook evenly and quickly.
- Cook them in the skillet until tender and reduce moisture. You want the squash soft but not mushy!
- Don’t skip sautéing the onion! It adds amazing flavor to the dish.
Letting the mixture cool slightly before baking helps everything meld beautifully. Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes and look for that golden brown topping—it’s a sign of deliciousness!
How to Make Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (or crushed saltine crackers)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, making a total of approximately 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help keep your casserole from sticking after it bakes!
2. Slice and Chop:
Next, slice the yellow squash into thin rounds and finely chop the onion. These will be the key ingredients in your casserole!
3. Sauté the Ingredients:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the sliced squash and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the squash is tender and most of the moisture has evaporated. If there’s any excess liquid, drain it out to keep your casserole from getting soggy.
4. Mix It All Together:
Transfer the cooked squash and onion mixture to a large mixing bowl and let it cool slightly for a moment. Once it has cooled a bit, stir in the sour cream, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until everything is well combined.
5. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now, fold in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the mixture, making it extra cheesy!
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Add More Cheese:
To ensure your casserole has a delicious cheesy topping, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top of the cracker layer.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set more firmly and will make serving easier. Enjoy your delicious Cozy Southern Squash Casserole as a warm side dish or a delightful main course!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking. Sauté it in the skillet until most of the water evaporates to prevent a soggy casserole.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it features squash and cheese. Just ensure that your cheese is rennet-free if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.
