Southern Squash Casserole
Why make this recipe
Southern Squash Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the South right to your table. It’s easy to make and packed with tasty ingredients, making it a perfect side dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness combined with the crunch of Ritz crackers will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to make Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the sliced squash and diced onion until they are soft and lightly golden, about 10–12 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in the squash and onion mixture until everything is well blended.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
How to serve Southern Squash Casserole
Southern Squash Casserole is a perfect side dish and pairs well with fried chicken, grilled meats, or a fresh salad. Serve it warm, and watch everyone enjoy its creamy and cheesy texture.
How to store Southern Squash Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Southern Squash Casserole
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green onions.
- You can use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the squash after cooking to avoid a watery casserole.
Variation
You can turn this casserole into a main dish by adding cooked ground beef or turkey for added protein. Just mix it in with the squash and cheese mixture before baking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use zucchini or a mix of different squashes for this recipe.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and it’s bubbly around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter for sautéing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and black pepper
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the sliced squash and diced onion until they are soft and lightly golden, about 10–12 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in the squash and onion mixture until everything is well blended.
Assembly & Baking
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
