This delightful Southern squash casserole is a must for your holiday table! It combines tender squash, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs for a perfect mix of flavors and textures.
You won’t be able to stop at one serving, I promise! It’s like bringing a hug on a plate to your family gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making you the star of the show!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for fresh yellow squash, which gives a lovely texture. If unavailable, zucchini can be a decent substitute, providing a similar flavor profile.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re not a fan of onion, consider using shallots for a milder taste or even green onions for a fresh twist.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute while keeping that tangy flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor. You can swap it with Monterey Jack for milder cheese or even a dairy-free cheese if you have dietary restrictions.
Buttery Crackers: Traditional buttery crackers give crunch. You can use crushed breadcrumbs or even panko for a crispier topping, just adjust the amount of butter for moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Squash?
Getting perfectly tender squash is crucial. First, slice the squash thinly for even cooking. When boiling, just cook until tender (about 5 minutes) but not mushy! Drain well, pressing out excess moisture. It helps prevent a soupy casserole later on, allowing flavors to shine.
- Boil the squash and onion together for great flavor.
- Make sure to press out as much liquid as possible after draining.
Best Southern Squash Casserole Recipe for Holidays
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz crackers)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Southern squash casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes to bake, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking. So you’ll have a delicious, creamy casserole ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and butter it up so your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Cook the Squash and Onion:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Toss in the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Cook them together for about 5 minutes until tender. Once they’re ready, drain well and press gently to remove any excess moisture. This step is important so your casserole isn’t watery!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked squash and onion with the eggs, sour cream, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and baking powder. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. You want all those yummy flavors to blend!
4. Prepare the Topping:
In another bowl, pour the melted butter over the crushed crackers and Parmesan cheese. Toss until everything is coated nicely. This will give your casserole a delicious crunch on top!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Fold half of the cracker mixture into the squash mixture, and then transfer this wonderful mixture to your prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly across the dish.
6. Add the Final Touch:
Sprinkle the remaining cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delightful crispy topping as it bakes!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the casserole is set and bubbling.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comfort food favorite at your holiday feast, and watch it disappear quickly!
Happy Cooking!
FAQ for Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini or a mix of summer squashes work beautifully too. Just make sure to slice them thinly and cook until tender.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the buttery crackers with gluten-free crackers or use crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Just check the labels to ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free.
