This Southern squash casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Made with fresh squash, creamy cheese, and topped with a crispy layer, it’s comfort food at its best.
Trust me, this dish is always a hit at potlucks. I love how easy it is to throw together—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for chilly nights! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish, bringing a fresh, mild taste. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well as a substitute. Just remember, the flavor will be slightly different.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, use medium cheddar or a cheese blend. For lactose-free diets, try a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tanginess. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier version, or even cottage cheese blended until smooth for a different texture.
Butter Crackers: Ritz crackers give a lovely buttery crunch. If you want a healthier option, crushed whole grain crackers or even breadcrumbs can replace them.
How Do I Get Perfectly Blanched Squash?
Blanching squash keeps it tender while releasing excess moisture, which is key for a non-soggy casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. Prepare a bowl of ice water nearby.
- Add the diced squash to the boiling water for about 5 minutes. You want it to be tender but not mushy.
- Quickly transfer the squash to the ice water using a slotted spoon. This stops the cooking process.
- Once cool, drain well and press excess moisture with a paper towel. This is crucial for a great texture!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, diced (fresh)
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30-40 minutes for baking. After that, let it sit for a few minutes to set. In under an hour, you’ll have a delightful dish that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Blanch the Squash:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the diced yellow squash and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it’s just tender. After that, drain the squash well and give it a gentle squeeze with paper towels to remove any extra moisture. This will help keep your casserole from being too watery!
3. Mix It All Together:
In a big mixing bowl, combine your blanched squash, chopped onion, sour cream, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well and you have a creamy mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks nicely. It should look colorful and inviting!
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. This will create a lovely crunchy topping. Once combined, sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly over the squash mixture. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of paprika on top for a touch of color!
6. Bake:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set in the middle and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly. This waiting time makes it easier to serve. Now, grab a spoon and enjoy your cozy Southern squash casserole with cheese! It’s sure to warm you up!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Squash in This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before incorporating it into the recipe. Blanching isn’t necessary for frozen squash, but ensure it’s well-dried to avoid a soggy casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to make it vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based sour cream and cheese alternative. The flavor will still be delightful!
What’s the Best Way 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 (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even corn for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely and reduce the total squash quantity to keep the texture right.
