This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole is warming and cheesy, perfect for a family meal! It features tender squash mixed with creamy cheese and a tasty crunchy topping.
I love how this dish brings everyone together, and the smell while it bakes is just heavenly! It’s a great way to make veggies feel special—and who doesn’t love cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: The star ingredient! Look for firm squash without blemishes. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute. Both have a similar texture when cooked.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack can give a different taste if you want variety. Feel free to use a dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option!
Crushed Buttery Crackers: Ritz crackers are the classic choice for that perfect crunch topping. You can use any brand of buttery crackers, or for a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or even breadcrumbs.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the casserole. Greek yogurt can work nicely as a substitute, giving a bit of tang along with the creaminess.
How Do I Prevent a Watery Casserole?
To avoid a watery texture, draining the squash and onion is essential. After boiling, press down on the mixture using paper towels or a cloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This ensures your casserole remains firm and delicious!
- Boil squash and onion for about 5 minutes, then drain.
- Press out excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients.
Taking this extra step makes a big difference in the final dish, allowing all the wonderful flavors to shine through without being diluted by excess water. Happy baking!
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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for the topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 30 to 40 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 50-55 minutes total before you can dig in. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your 9×13-inch casserole dish and either butter it or spray it with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking later on!
2. Cook the Veggies:
In a large pot, bring some water to a boil and add in your sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook them for about 5 minutes, just until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain the veggies well, then place them on a clean towel or some paper towels to press out any excess moisture. This step keeps your casserole from being watery.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, toss together the drained squash and onion with the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, sour cream, melted butter, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and has a nice creamy consistency.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the cheesy squash mixture into the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top with a spatula so it’s even and looks nice.
5. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter, mixing it until the crackers are well coated. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole mixture. This will create a delicious golden crust as it bakes!
6. Bake It Up:
Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the topping is a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5–10 minutes. This resting time helps everything settle. Then, it’s time to scoop yourself a generous serving and enjoy this comforting Southern classic!
There you have it! A delicious Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese that’s sure to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy! 🧀✨
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole With Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini works well as a substitute. Both have a similar texture once cooked, making them great alternatives!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure you’re using vegetable broth if you decide to incorporate any broth for extra flavor while cooking the squash. All the other ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for a vegetarian menu!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a few minutes until hot.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
