Southern Squash Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic casserole is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with nearly any main course. It’s the perfect way to use fresh summer squash, but it’s just as delicious year-round. With its golden, crunchy topping and soft, creamy interior, Southern Squash Casserole is both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow squash, sliced
• Yellow onion, finely chopped
• Butter
• Eggs
• Sour cream or mayonnaise
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
• Olive oil or additional butter for topping

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the sliced squash to the skillet and sauté for about 10–15 minutes, until tender and most of the moisture is cooked off.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream (or mayonnaise), salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, then fold in the cooked squash and onions.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle over the casserole.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people and takes about 50 minutes to make. Prep time is around 15 minutes, and baking time is 30–35 minutes.

Variations

• Add Bacon: Stir in chopped cooked bacon for a smoky twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
• Creamier Texture: Use cream cheese or heavy cream in place of sour cream.
• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyère for a flavor change.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an earthy note.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.
• Zucchini Mix: Combine zucchini and yellow squash for added color and texture.
• Low-Carb: Skip the cracker topping and add extra cheese on top.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cheese, egg substitutes, and non-dairy sour cream.
• Add Corn: Mix in a handful of cooked corn kernels for sweetness and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. The topping may soften slightly but can be refreshed under the broiler for a minute or two if desired.

FAQs

What kind of squash is best for this casserole?

Yellow summer squash is traditional, but you can also use zucchini or a mix of both.

Do I need to peel the squash?

No, the skin is thin and softens during cooking—just wash and slice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole without the topping and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

How do I prevent a watery casserole?

Sauté the squash thoroughly to cook off excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

Can I freeze squash casserole?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or a mild cheese.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you don’t add meat. It contains dairy and eggs, though.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.

How do I make it more indulgent?

Add extra cheese, cream cheese, or even a layer of béchamel sauce for richness.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and increase bake time by about 10 minutes, checking for doneness.

Conclusion

Southern Squash Casserole is a timeless favorite that combines humble ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or serving it at a family dinner, its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping make it a guaranteed hit. Enjoy it as a side or a main—either way, it’s Southern comfort on a plate.

Southern Squash Casserole

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Southern Squash Casserole is a comforting baked dish made with tender yellow squash, onions, eggs, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, all topped with a buttery cracker crust. It’s creamy, cheesy, and a Southern classic perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 lbs yellow squash, sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
• 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened.
3. Add sliced squash and sauté 10–15 minutes until tender and most moisture evaporates. Let cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream (or mayonnaise), salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese, then fold in cooked squash and onions.
6. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter or olive oil, then sprinkle over casserole.
8. Bake 30–35 minutes until top is golden and casserole is bubbly.
9. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Cook squash thoroughly to remove excess liquid and avoid a watery casserole.
• Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack work well.
• To prepare ahead, assemble without topping and refrigerate; add topping before baking.
• Reheat leftovers in oven to crisp topping again, or broil briefly if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 75mg