Southern Squash Casserole

This Southern Squash Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any gathering. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy buttered crackers, this dish transforms humble yellow squash into a show-stopping side that everyone will enjoy. Whether for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this casserole is sure to impress even those who claim they don’t like squash.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and Parmesan creates a creamy, savory profile that elevates the squash.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish for holidays, barbecues, or even casual dinners; it complements many main courses.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even those skeptical about squash will find it hard to resist this cheesy delight.
• Leftover Friendly: This casserole heats up beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Southern Squash Casserole, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (1.5 qt)
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Allows for even cooking and sautéing of ingredients without overcrowding.
• Colander: Essential for draining excess moisture from the squash, ensuring your casserole isn’t watery.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps in easily combining all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

This cheesy Southern Squash Casserole with Crispy Buttered Crackers is a classic Southern Side Dish that even the squash haters will love.

For the Casserole

• 2 pounds yellow squash (sliced ¼ inch thick (about 5 medium sized squash))
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping

• 1 cup butter crackers (finely crushed (about 25 crackers))

How to Make Southern Squash Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

In a large pan set over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for 7-8 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Squash

Add the sliced yellow squash to the pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the squash is tender. Stir frequently to prevent browning and promote moisture release.

Step 3: Drain Excess Moisture

Place a towel in a colander to catch any small pieces. Transfer the cooked squash and onions onto the towel-lined colander. Let them drain for at least 5 minutes while pressing out any extra moisture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, stir together the drained squash mixture with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, sour cream, beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Set aside.

Step 5: Prepare Topping

Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Mix melted butter with crushed crackers and remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole

Scrape the squash mixture into a baking dish (about 1.5 qt). Spread the cracker topping evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your delicious Southern Squash Casserole!

How to Serve Southern Squash Casserole

Serving Southern Squash Casserole can elevate any meal, making it a delightful addition to your dining table. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this cheesy dish.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken complements the creamy texture of the casserole perfectly, adding a protein boost to your meal.

Serve with Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole while adding refreshing flavors.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables bring out earthy notes that pair beautifully with the squash, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Enjoy as a Standalone Dish

• This casserole is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners.

Add Cornbread on the Side

• A slice of cornbread adds a sweet and crunchy contrast, rounding out your Southern-inspired meal.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkling additional shredded cheese on top before serving creates an extra melty experience that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Southern Squash Casserole

Creating the perfect Southern Squash Casserole involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an even more delicious dish.

• Choose Fresh Squash: Using fresh yellow squash enhances flavor and texture, making your casserole more vibrant and appealing.

• Sauté Until Soft: Ensure the onions are soft before adding squash; this helps develop a deeper flavor profile in your dish.

• Drain Excess Moisture: Properly draining the cooked squash prevents a watery casserole and ensures it holds its shape when served.

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar and Parmesan cheese for richer flavors that elevate your casserole’s taste.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or basil for extra depth; they complement squash beautifully.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up, making portioning easier.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Squash Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Southern Squash Casserole can enhance your meal’s flavor profile. Here are some excellent options.

1. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy and slightly tart, these add a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the creamy casserole.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the casserole nicely.

3. Sweet Potato Mash: The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors of squash perfectly.

4. Green Beans Almondine: Tender green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both texture and elegance alongside your dish.

5. Corn Pudding: Creamy corn pudding adds comfort food vibes while harmonizing with the cheesy squash casserole.

6. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: For ultimate comfort, pair this classic dish; its cheesy goodness will delight everyone at your table.

7. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a crispy element that contrasts wonderfully with the soft casserole texture.

8. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks make for a great hand-held accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Southern Squash Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the draining step: Many people forget to drain the cooked squash and onions, which can lead to a watery casserole. Make sure to let them sit in a colander for at least 5 minutes.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the mixture can result in bland flavors. Be sure to follow the recommended amounts of salt and pepper for a well-balanced taste.
• Using cold ingredients: If you use cold sour cream or eggs, it can affect the texture of the casserole. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. Overbaking can make it dry, while underbaking may leave it too soft. Aim for that perfect golden crust.
• Choosing the wrong dish size: Using a dish that is too small can cause overflow while baking, while a dish that is too large may dry out the casserole. Stick with a 1.5-quart baking dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Southern Squash Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Southern Squash Casserole

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Southern Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Southern Squash Casserole.

What is Southern Squash Casserole?

Southern Squash Casserole is a cheesy side dish made with yellow squash, onions, and a crunchy topping of buttered crackers. It’s flavorful and comforting.

Can I make Southern Squash Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add about 10 extra minutes to your baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can easily customize your Southern Squash Casserole by adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it’s bubbly around the edges and has a golden-brown topping. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

Southern Squash Casserole is a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. Try this recipe for your next meal; you won’t be disappointed!