Delicious Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

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There’s something comforting about the scent of buttery squash and bubbling cheese wafting from the oven. I’ve made this Southern Squash Casserole more times than I can count—it’s my go-to for holidays, Sunday suppers, and any time I need a cozy, golden-topped side that just makes people happy. It’s rich, savory, and every spoonful delivers that nostalgic Southern warmth.

What I love about this dish is how it transforms simple yellow squash into a show-stopping side. With the tender squash layered between creamy sauce and a crispy, cheesy topping, it’s practically begging for second helpings. If you’re looking for a way to win hearts at the dinner table, this recipe is it.

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Why You’ll Love This Southern Squash Casserole

This casserole checks all the boxes: it’s creamy, cheesy, and full of classic Southern flavor. It’s easy enough for weeknight meals but special enough to earn a spot on the holiday table. Whether you’re serving picky kids, comfort food lovers, or curious guests, this dish delivers with:

• Simple ingredients
• A crowd-pleasing cheesy top layer
• A versatile flavor that pairs with nearly any main dish
• The ability to make it ahead and reheat like a dream

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What Kind of Squash Should I Use?

For this casserole, yellow summer squash is the traditional and best choice. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and soft texture that becomes beautifully tender when baked. Look for squash that’s small to medium in size—they tend to have fewer seeds and better texture.

If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is the closest substitute in both texture and flavor. Just note that it may have a touch more moisture, so a light salting and draining before cooking can help keep the casserole from becoming watery.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re adapting to dietary needs or working with what’s on hand, this casserole is flexible:

• Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a sharp white cheddar can elevate the flavor.
• Cracker Topping: Ritz crackers are the Southern staple, but you can swap with buttery panko, crushed cornflakes, or even seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Cream: Use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a béchamel-style white sauce for the creamy base.
• Onions: Sautéed yellow onions are perfect, but shallots or even sweet Vidalia onions are great alternatives.
• Eggs: Essential for binding, but for an egg-free version, use a cornstarch slurry or a vegan egg replacement product.
• Butter: Plant-based butter substitutes work well if you’re keeping it dairy-free.

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Ingredients for Southern Squash Casserole

Each ingredient plays a key role in building that rich, comforting flavor and irresistible texture:

• Yellow Squash – The star of the show. Tender and mildly sweet, it becomes soft and luscious when baked.
• Onion – Adds a savory base and depth of flavor. Sautéing it first helps mellow its bite.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients together and give the casserole structure.
• Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the richness.
• Sour Cream – Adds tang and body to the creamy filling.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the mixture and forms a golden crust on top. Sharp cheddar is ideal for flavor.
• Butter – Used to sauté the squash and onions, and also gives richness to the cracker topping.
• Ritz Crackers – Crushed and scattered on top, they provide a buttery crunch that makes the dish irresistible.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

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Step 2: Cook the Squash and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Sauté for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess liquid to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sour cream, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to blend. Add salt and pepper to taste (usually about ½ teaspoon of each).

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Step 4: Combine and Layer

Fold the cooked squash and onion into the creamy mixture. Stir gently to coat all the vegetables evenly. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out.

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Step 5: Add the Topping

Crush about 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (or around 30 crackers) and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it across the cracker topping for extra richness and golden color.

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Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets slightly.

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How Long to Cook Southern Squash Casserole

The Southern Squash Casserole should bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the cracker topping turns a beautiful golden brown. A quick test with a knife inserted in the center should come out hot and clean—no liquidy center.

If you’re prepping ahead and baking from chilled, allow for an extra 10 minutes in the oven, covering loosely with foil for the first half to prevent over-browning the top.

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Tips for Perfect Southern Squash Casserole

• Use smaller squash: They’re more tender and have fewer seeds, which helps with texture.
• Don’t skip draining: After sautéing, remove any excess liquid from the squash and onions so your casserole doesn’t end up soggy.
• Use sharp cheddar: It gives more flavor punch and balances the creamy ingredients.
• Crush crackers just right: Not too fine, not too chunky—think rustic crunch for the perfect topping.
• Add a hint of garlic: Sauté a minced clove with the onions for a savory twist.
• Customize the seasoning: A pinch of paprika or thyme can elevate the flavor if you want something a little different.
• Let it rest: After baking, give it a few minutes to cool before serving. It helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
• Double it for a crowd: This recipe scales beautifully if you’re cooking for a holiday or potluck.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Avoiding a few missteps can make the difference between a good casserole and a great one:

• Overcooking the squash during sautéing: It should be just tender—not mushy. Remember, it continues cooking in the oven.
• Skipping the draining step: Squash holds water. If you don’t drain the sautéed mixture well, the casserole can turn watery.
• Using bland cheese: Mild cheddar doesn’t bring much flavor. Go with sharp or even extra-sharp for the best bite.
• Forgetting to season: Under-salting is easy to do in casseroles. Taste your filling before baking and adjust as needed.
• Letting the topping burn: Keep an eye on the oven during the last 5 minutes—if the crackers start browning too fast, tent loosely with foil.
• Overmixing: Fold gently so the squash slices stay intact and you don’t end up with a mushy texture.
• Not preheating the oven: An under-heated oven leads to uneven baking.
• Serving it too soon: It needs at least 5 minutes to rest and set after baking.

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What to Serve With Southern Squash Casserole?

1. Fried Chicken

The crispiness of fried chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy casserole, creating a Southern feast that’s hard to beat.

2. Grilled Pork Chops

Juicy pork chops with a smoky char complement the savory squash filling beautifully.

3. Baked Ham

Sweet, glazed ham brings out the mild sweetness of the squash and offers a great holiday table combo.

4. Meatloaf

Classic meatloaf and squash casserole are a nostalgic comfort food duo.

5. Roasted Turkey

A go-to side for Thanksgiving—this casserole holds its own next to roasted poultry.

6. Fresh Green Beans

Balance the richness with lightly sautéed or steamed green beans tossed in a little garlic butter.

7. Macaroni and Cheese

Double down on Southern comfort with another cheesy, creamy side dish.

8. Cornbread

Fluffy cornbread or even corn muffins add texture and soak up all that creamy goodness from the plate.

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Storage Instructions

Southern Squash Casserole stores exceptionally well, which makes it a great make-ahead option for gatherings or weeknight leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Reheating: To reheat leftovers, bake in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent over-browning. Individual portions can be microwaved for 1–2 minutes until hot.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can sauté the squash and onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.

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Estimated Nutrition

Please note these values are approximate and based on a standard serving size (about 1/8 of the casserole):

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 8g

This dish is rich and satisfying, thanks to the cheese, butter, and creamy filling. If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using reduced-fat cheese and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayo.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Southern Squash Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the entire dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if it’s coming straight from the cold.

2. Can I use frozen squash?

While fresh is best for texture and flavor, frozen squash can be used in a pinch. Thaw completely and drain thoroughly to avoid excess water.

3. Is this recipe vegetarian?

It can be! Just ensure your cheese and crackers are vegetarian-friendly. There’s no meat in the dish itself.

4. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

The key is to cook the squash and onions until tender, then drain off any liquid before mixing with the creamy ingredients.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones and extend the baking time slightly—watch for bubbling edges and a golden top.

6. What other toppings can I use besides Ritz crackers?

Try panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a crisp finish.

7. Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly softer. A cornstarch slurry or plant-based egg replacer can be used to help bind the ingredients.

8. What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but feel free to experiment with blends like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even smoked gouda for a twist.

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Conclusion

Southern Squash Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen—rich, creamy, and downright comforting. Whether you’re serving it alongside a Sunday roast or making it the centerpiece of a cozy weeknight dinner, it never fails to impress. I’ve leaned on this recipe time and time again for its simplicity, flavor, and ability to please a crowd. It’s the kind of Southern comfort that brings people together and disappears fast from the serving dish.

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