Easy Southern Squash Casserole
Squash Casserole
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Ingredients for the Perfect Squash Casserole
- Yellow Squash: About 4 cups, thinly sliced. This tender, slightly sweet vegetable is the star of the dish, providing a fresh and vibrant base.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped. Adds a savory depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Butter: Used both for sautéing the vegetables and enriching the casserole mixture, bringing a rich, creamy texture.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten. These bind the ingredients together, giving the casserole its perfect structure and firmness.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for a luscious, cheesy flavor that melts beautifully into the filling.
- Milk: 1 cup, to add creaminess and help create a smooth, well-blended filling.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste for balanced flavor throughout the casserole.
- Cayenne Pepper (Optional): A pinch for those who enjoy a subtle, spicy kick.
- Ritz Crackers: One full sleeve, crushed finely. This creates the irresistible buttery, golden-brown topping everyone loves.
- Cooking Spray: To lightly grease your casserole dish and prevent sticking.
Easy Southern Squash Casserole
A Southern classic, this Easy Squash Casserole features tender squash, savory onions, creamy cheddar, and a crispy buttery Ritz cracker topping perfect for any comforting meal.
Course: Side Dish Cuisine: American (Southern) Keyword: Squash Casserole Recipe Prep Time: 5minutes minutes Cook Time: 45minutes minutes Total Time: 50minutes minutes Servings: 12
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter (for mixing)
- ½ tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- Cooking spray (for greasing the dish)
How to Make Squash Casserole
- Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. - Sauté the Veggies
In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook for 8–10 minutes until soft. Drain any excess moisture. - Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cheese, and milk. Stir in the sautéed squash and onions. - Add Seasoning & Butter
Melt remaining 2 tbsp butter and mix it into the casserole mixture. Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine. - Assemble & Top
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until golden and set. The casserole should not jiggle when shaken. - Rest & Serve
Let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
- Too Watery?
- Squash holds a lot of moisture. Be sure to sauté thoroughly and drain liquid before mixing. Pat dry with paper towels for best texture.
- Gluten-Free Version
- Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Make sure all seasonings and cheese are gluten-free.
- No Ritz Crackers?
- Substitute with buttery crackers, breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes.
- Add-Ins:
- Want extra flavor or protein? Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded rotisserie chicken!
Serving Ideas
- This squash casserole pairs perfectly with:
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- BBQ meats
- Mashed potatoes or mac and cheese
- A crisp green salad
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Make Ahead:
Assemble up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Let sit at room temperature for 15 mins before baking.
Leftovers:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
Nutrition
Calories: 448kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 653mg | Potassium: 568mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1384IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 2mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes! Zucchini works just as well. You can even mix both for extra flavor. Just make sure to sauté and drain any excess moisture.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Sauté the squash and onions until tender, then drain off any liquid. Patting the cooked veggies dry with paper towels also helps keep the casserole firm.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for Ritz crackers?
Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free crackers, breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes for a similar crunchy topping.
Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?
Definitely! Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded chicken to customize the dish. Just watch moisture levels to maintain the right texture.
Conclusion
This Easy Southern Squash Casserole is more than just a side dish — it’s a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful staple that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re celebrating holidays or simply enjoying a cozy family meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite everyone asks for again and again. Give it a try, and watch it disappear fast!
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