Homemade Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
What is your favorite Southern Squash Casserole recipe? I can smell Grandma’s kitchen every time I make it. What’s that creamy goodness that just warms you from the inside out? Is it like mac and cheese? Is this one of those recipes that seems fancy but is secretly incredibly easy? What is your family favorite version of this song? It’s definitely been requested more than a few times for potlucks and holiday gatherings. What are some of the best dishes that everyone should try? What is the best southern squash casserole?
What is Southern Squash Casserole?
What is this dreamy dish? Think of it as a baked casserole featuring tender yellow squash (though sometimes zucchini sneaks into the oven). ), a creamy, cheesy sauce, and buttery, crunchy topping. What is a layered hug? The name “casserole” just refers to the type of dish used, a deep pan that can go straight from oven. What is a classic Southern side dish? What’s your twist on it? Is it a blank canvas for deliciousness? How do I use up summer squash?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? First off, the flavor is incredible. You’ve got the sweetness of the squash balanced by the savory cheese and that delightful crunch from the topping. It’s a symphony in your mouth, I swear. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is. Seriously, it’s practically foolproof. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip this up. Even on busy weeknights, I can throw this together in no time. Plus, it’s pretty cost-effective. Squash is usually inexpensive, especially during peak season. I also love that it’s versatile. You can serve it as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or even bring it to a potluck. One time, I even added a little cooked sausage to make it a complete meal – the family loved it! And compared to other vegetable side dishes, this Southern Squash Casserole is a guaranteed hit, even with picky eaters. It beats steamed broccoli any day! Honestly, my kids ask for this all the time, and that’s saying something. This Homemade Southern Squash Casserole Recipe will become a classic in your house too, I just know it.
How do I make a Southern Squash Casserole?
Quick Overview
How do I make a Southern Squash Casserole? What’s the best way to cook a squash? In a large baking dish, pour the buttery crumb mixture into the prepared dish and bake until golden and bubbly. The magic is in the layering and the combination of textures and flavors. I am not a seasoned cook, but I can nail this one!
Ingredients Notes:
For the Main Casserole: What are some
Yellow Squash: About 2 pounds, sliced. Smaller squash tends to be less watery, so keep that in mind. Onion: One medium onion, diced. Adds a savory base to the casserole. Cream of Chicken Soup: One can (10.75 ounces) is a classic Southern shortcut for creamy casseroles. Sour Cream: One cup. Adds tang and richness. I’ve also used plain Greek yogurt in a pinch, and it works surprisingly well. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Two cups. I like sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but mild cheddar works too. What are some ways to make a blend of cheeses? Butter: Two tablespoons, melted. Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
For the Topping:
What are some melted Ritz Crackers? What is the key to a Southern crunch? What are some of the best breadcrumbs to use for a twist?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use butter for greasing because it adds a little extra flavor, but cooking spray works as well. Is it necessary to preheat the oven to cook the casserole?
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Squash
In a large skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Set aside. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the sliced squash and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Cooking onion and squash beforehand helps to soften them and develop their flavors. If the squash starts to brown too quickly, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to the skillet.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and one and half cups of shredded cheese. Set aside. What is cheddar cheese? What will be the base of casserole? Stir until well combined. Make sure the soup and sour cream are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Step 4: Combine Squash Mixture
Add the cooked squash and onion mixture to the bowl with the soup and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything. Do not overmix the casserole, as this can make it watery. I always do this step gently to keep some texture!
Step 5: Prepare Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Set aside. Mix well until the crackers are evenly coated with butter. What makes this casserole so delicious? If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed potato. What are some of the best chips for a different flavor?
Step 6: Assemble Casserole
What is the recipe for a baking dish with squash? What’s the best way to serve shredded cheddar cheese with arugula? Ritz cracker mixture. Make sure the topping is evenly distributed so that every bite has that delightful crunch.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly. The topping should be nicely browned, and the cheese should have melted and bubbly. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole with foil for the last 10-15 minutes. How long does it take to bake When you shake a dish slightly, it should jiggle just slightly and that’s when you know it’ll be okay.
Step 8: Cool Slightly & Serve
How do I remove a casserole from the oven and let it cool for ten minutes before serving? This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Serve warm and enjoy! Is it good to eat straight from the oven?
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some easy recipes for Southern Squash Casserole? Can be as a side dish, as an appetizer, or as the main course. What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: with a spoon or by hand.
For a Southern Feast:What is a Southern spread? What is the perfect addition to a BBQ?
What is the best holiday meal?Serve with ham, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole for a festive holiday meal. What is a good Thanksgiving casserole?
As a light lunch:What are some good side salads to serve with a small serving?
For a Potluck:What is the best way to bring it to your next potluck or gathering? I always get asked for the recipe when I bring this to parties!
How do I make a Southern Squash Casserole?
What are some of the best Southern Squash Casserole recipes? What are some of my top tips and tricks?
Squeeze Out Excess Moisture:After cooking the squash, drain it well and gently squeeze out any excess moisture. How do you prevent a casserole from becoming watery?
Don’t overcook squash: Don’t Cook the squash until it’s tender but not mushy. Overcooked squash will make the casserole too soft.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese:Why is grated cheese better than pre-shredded cheese? What makes a difference?
Customize the Cheese: How do IFeel free to experiment with different types of cheese. What are some good substitutes for Gruyere in this casserole? Can you use pre-shredded Mexican cheese blend?
Add a little spice: Add some spice to yourWhat are some good side dishes to serve with hot sauce?
Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few minutes to the baking time. I do this all the time when I’m prepping for a big gathering.
Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken to the casserole. I find it makes it even more satisfying.
Breadcrumb Variation: Swap out the Ritz crackers for panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese for a more savory topping.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing: Leftover Homemade Southern Squash Casserole Recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave individual portions until heated through. For larger portions, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat.
Freezing: You can freeze this casserole, but the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze advice: I don’t recommend applying the Ritz cracker topping if you intend to freeze the casserole. Apply it just before baking, for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my family’s favorite Homemade Southern Squash Casserole Recipe. I hope you give it a try and that it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s simple, delicious, and always a hit. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other casserole recipes for more comforting and easy meal ideas. I’m betting you’ll adore my potato casserole and my broccoli rice casserole. Happy baking, y’all! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below to let me know if you tried this Homemade Southern Squash Casserole Recipe and what you thought. Also, don’t forget to rate the recipe! I also want to know: did you make any variations?
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Homemade Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups yellow squash sliced
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.75 cups sour cream
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup butter melted
- 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large saucepan, cook the sliced squash and diced onion in lightly salted boiling water for 5 minutes; drain well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and melted butter.
- Add the cooked squash and onion into the cheese mixture and gently mix until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
