If you’re on the hunt for a comforting side dish that feels like a warm hug from the South, this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. Creamy, cheesy, and delightfully crispy on top, it brings together tender yellow squash and zucchini with the rich flavors of melted cheddar and buttery cracker crumbs. Each bite is an irresistible combination of textures and tastes that’s guaranteed to make any meal special, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple kitchen staples, each playing a crucial role in bringing flavor, texture, and color to this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe. From the fresh squash to the crunchy cracker topping, every component contributes to making this dish shine.
- 3 Tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the onions and squash, adding a subtle fruity note and helping to soften the vegetables gently.
- 1 Vidalia onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the squash.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Gives the casserole a little aromatic punch without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1½ pounds yellow squash, sliced: Brings a tender texture and bright color, making the dish visually appealing and flavorful.
- 1½ pounds zucchini, sliced: Adds moisture and a fresh green hue, balancing the sweetness of the yellow squash.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Provides creamy, sharp cheesiness that melds the ingredients together beautifully.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Helps bind the mixture, ensuring the casserole holds together perfectly after baking.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds rich creaminess that elevates the squash into a luscious, velvety mixture.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite sing.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle kick of spice to balance the richness and sweetness.
- 3 Tbsp grated parmesan: Sprinkles a savory, nutty layer on top, complementing the cheddar and crumb topping.
- 3 Tbsp butter, melted: Infuses the cracker topping with a golden, buttery crunch.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 24 crackers): Adds irresistible crispness to the casserole’s finish, with a hint of buttery flavor.
How to Make Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF and greasing a 9×9-inch or 11×10-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step ensures the casserole cooks evenly without sticking, setting the stage for an effortless bake.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics and Squash
Warm the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet, then toss in the chopped Vidalia onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until it starts turning translucent and sweet. Add the minced garlic and both the yellow squash and zucchini. Cook the mixture for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash softens and releases some of its moisture.
Step 3: Draining the Excess Liquid
Once the squash is tender, remove the pan from heat and transfer the veggies into a colander to drain off any excess liquid. This step is essential for preventing a watery casserole and helps concentrate the flavors.
Step 4: Preparing the Cracker Topping
While the squash drains, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter, which will create that gorgeous golden crust. Set aside half of this mixture for the casserole topping.
Step 5: Mixing the Casserole Filling
In a large bowl, add the drained squash and then mix in half of your buttered cracker crumbs, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, the lightly beaten eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined, which will create a creamy yet structured filling ready to bake.
Step 6: Assembling the Casserole
Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the reserved cracker crumbs and grated parmesan cheese. This layering adds a burst of flavor and texture with every bite.
Step 7: Baking Until Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is a beautiful golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The result is a perfectly baked Southern Squash Casserole that is creamy inside with a crispy, cheesy topping that you’ll want to dig into right away.
How to Serve Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Southern Squash Casserole Recipe even more inviting, sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. These green herbs add a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a fantastic side that pairs beautifully with classic Southern mains like fried chicken, smoked ribs, or baked ham. It also complements lighter proteins like grilled fish or roasted turkey, making it incredibly versatile.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with extra crushed crackers and cheese browned under the broiler. This personalized presentation makes the dish feel special for holiday dinners or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Southern Squash Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking. Cover it well with foil and a layer of plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat your Southern Squash Casserole Recipe in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through and crisp on top again, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature crunchy topping intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
While fresh squash yields the best texture, you can use frozen squash if you drain it very well beforehand to avoid excess moisture. Just be aware the casserole might turn out a bit softer.
Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian-friendly?
This Southern Squash Casserole Recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just ensure the cheese and butter you use are vegetarian-friendly if that’s a concern.
Can I substitute the Ritz crackers with something else?
Absolutely! Crushed buttery crackers are traditional, but you can swap them for panko breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers for a different texture or to accommodate what you have on hand.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe keeps things mild and comforting, with just a hint of pepper for gentle warmth. It’s perfect for all ages and can be customized with a pinch of cayenne if you want a bit more heat.
Can I prepare this dish vegan-style?
To create a vegan version of this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe, replace the eggs, cheddar cheese, and butter with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cheese shreds, a flax egg or aquafaba for binding, and vegan butter or olive oil for richness.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Squash Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that bring people together with its comforting flavors and delightful textures. It’s a simple yet impressive way to elevate fresh squash into a dish that feels like a celebration. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your home, just like it is in mine.
Print
Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Squash Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish featuring tender yellow squash and zucchini sautéed with onions and garlic, then baked with a creamy, cheesy mixture topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Perfect as a side for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it blends traditional Southern flavors with a crispy, golden topping for a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 Vidalia onion, chopped
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1½ pounds yellow squash, sliced
- 1½ pounds zucchini, sliced
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
Other
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (approximately 24 crackers)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Prepare a 9×9-inch or 11×10-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped Vidalia onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic along with the sliced yellow squash and zucchini. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender but not mushy.
- Drain Excess Liquid: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the cooked squash mixture to a colander and let it drain to remove any excess liquid which might make the casserole soggy.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers. Set aside half of this cracker mixture for the topping.
- Mix Casserole Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained squash mixture with half of the cracker mixture, ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, lightly beaten eggs, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the squash filling evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the reserved cracker crumbs and the grated parmesan cheese for an added crispy, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Drain the squash mixture thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
- Using Vidalia onions adds a subtle sweetness balancing the savory flavors.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to help it set for easier slicing.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
