This Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese is a hug in a dish. It’s packed with tender squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping that makes every bite a treat!
Whenever I make this casserole, my family can’t resist asking for seconds. It’s so good, it might just turn squash haters into fans! 😄 Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Choose firm, fresh squash for the best texture. You can substitute zucchini or a mix of both if you prefer a slightly different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, Monterey Jack or colby can work too. Vegan cheese is also a good substitute if you want a dairy-free option.
Mozzarella Cheese: While it adds nice creaminess, feel free to use any white cheese you enjoy, like gouda or even a blended cheese. If you need it to be dairy-free, look for plant-based mozzarella alternatives.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier twist. It provides similar creaminess and tang. You can also use dairy-free options if needed.
Crushed Crackers: If you don’t have buttery crackers, consider using breadcrumbs or even crushed potato chips for an added crunch. They all work great as a topping.
How Do I Get My Squash Just Right?
Getting the squash cooked perfectly is essential for this casserole to shine. You’ll want to boil the squash until it’s just tender, but not mushy, so it holds its shape during baking. Here’s how:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil first, then add the squash slices.
- Cook for only 3-4 minutes, checking for tenderness with a fork. They should be soft enough to pierce but still hold their shape.
- After draining, press out excess moisture. Use a clean towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out water—this helps prevent a soggy casserole.
Following these steps ensures your squash adds flavor without becoming mushy. Happy cooking!
Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mild white cheese)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or crushed cornflakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time, for a total of about 55 minutes to enjoy this warm, comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, so the casserole doesn’t stick. This will make clean-up a breeze!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. This brings out the flavor! Once done, set the onions aside.
3. Cook the Squash:
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and cook for 3-4 minutes. You want the squash to be tender but still firm—no mushiness here! Drain the cooked squash and press out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is important for a nice texture!
4. Mix It All Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, sautéed onion, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, beaten eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix everything together until well incorporated. It should be a creamy, cheesy mixture!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly, making sure it is well distributed.
6. Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of paprika over the crumbs for a little color and extra flavor.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. It’s great on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with Southern-style main dishes!
Enjoy your delicious and cozy Southern squash casserole with cheese! It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Squash Casserole with Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini works wonderfully as a substitute. You can also mix both for a colorful dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use for a Gluten-Free Option?
If you need a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and replace the crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free chips. It will still be just as delicious!
