Southern Squash Casserole is one of those cherished dishes that always finds its way onto holiday tables, church potlucks, and Sunday suppers. It’s warm, creamy, and comforting in the way only a Southern staple can be. Tender yellow squash is cooked down with onions, folded into a rich, creamy base, and finished with a buttery cracker topping that turns beautifully golden in the oven. What I admire most about this recipe is how humble ingredients come together to create something extraordinarily satisfying. I once experimented with a lighter version using almond milk and reduced-fat cheese, and the casserole still emerged creamy and comforting, proving how flexible this dish can be. Whether you are preparing a family-style meal, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a nostalgic side dish, this casserole offers dependable flavour and universal appeal. It’s a warm reminder of Southern hospitality in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe embodies classic Southern comfort: creamy texture, tender vegetables, and a crisp buttery topping that provides the perfect contrast. It is simple enough for weeknight meals yet impressive enough for holidays. The ingredients are approachable and easy to customise, and the casserole travels well, making it ideal for potlucks or gatherings. It also reheats beautifully, maintaining its softness and golden finish.
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Classic Southern Squash Casserole for Timeless Comfort and Crowd-Pleasing Ease
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern Squash Casserole made with tender yellow squash, sautéed onions, a creamy cheese mixture, and a buttery cracker topping—comforting, simple, and perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 6 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté squash and onion until tender, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly. Stir in sour cream, cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, and garlic powder if using.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Combine crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add 1/4 cup parmesan for extra cheesy depth.
- Drain squash well if excess liquid remains after cooking.
- Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Yellow squash
Yellow squash is the star of the dish, offering tender texture and mild sweetness that deepens as it cooks down. It provides the signature softness essential to Southern-style casseroles.
Onion
Onion adds savoury depth and gentle sweetness, complementing the squash and enhancing the creamy base.
Butter
Butter enriches the casserole, used both for sautéing the vegetables and for mixing into the creamy filling.
Eggs
Eggs help bind the casserole, giving it structure while still allowing the filling to remain soft and spoonable.
Sour cream
Sour cream adds the creamy tang that defines this beloved dish, creating richness without overpowering the mild squash.
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar offers sharp, melty depth that balances the sweetness of the squash. It blends into the filling and melts into a smooth, cohesive layer.
Cracker crumbs
Crushed buttery crackers form the classic topping, baking into a crisp, golden crust that contrasts the soft interior.
Salt and pepper
Basic seasonings ensure the casserole’s flavours shine without overwhelming the dish’s comforting simplicity.
Directions
Begin by slicing the squash into thin rounds and finely chopping the onion. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté the squash and onion until tender and lightly caramelised. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and allow them to cool slightly. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and combine them with sour cream and shredded cheddar. Fold the sautéed vegetables into the mixture, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Preheat the oven and lightly butter a baking dish. Pour in the casserole mixture, smoothing the top. In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle the mixture evenly over the surface. Bake until the casserole is set and the topping turns golden brown. Let it rest briefly before serving to allow the flavours to settle and the texture to firm slightly.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to preserve the topping’s crispness. The microwave works for individual servings, though the topping may soften slightly. If needed, add a few fresh cracker crumbs before reheating for renewed texture.
Variations and Customizations
Cheesy Deluxe Casserole
Increase the cheddar or add Monterey Jack for a richer, gooier interior.
Vegetable-Boosted Version
Stir in sautéed bell peppers, corn, or spinach to introduce colour and nutritional depth.
Herb-Infused Southern Twist
Add fresh thyme, parsley, or chives for a brighter, more aromatic flavour profile.
Lightened Southern Casserole
Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese while maintaining buttery cracker topping for balance.
Bread Crumb Alternative
Replace classic crackers with seasoned bread crumbs or panko for a different textural finish.
Spicy Southern Casserole
Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce gentle heat.
Creamy Garlic Variation
Mix roasted garlic into the filling for a mellow, aromatic richness.
Cornbread-Topped Casserole
Replace crackers with crumbled cornbread for a heartier Southern style.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free crackers or panko to maintain crispness without altering flavour.
Extra-Crispy Topping
Add a small handful of Parmesan to the crushed crackers before baking for a more savoury crust.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, zucchini works well and cooks similarly, though the flavour will be slightly different.
Should I drain the squash before mixing?
If the squash releases excess moisture, draining or patting it dry ensures the casserole does not become watery.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead?
Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
Can I freeze Southern squash casserole?
Freezing is possible but may slightly alter the texture; freeze before baking for best results.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt provides similar tang with a lighter profile.
What type of crackers work best?
Buttery crackers such as round snack crackers offer the most classic flavour.
Is pre-shredded cheese acceptable?
Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly into the casserole.
How do I keep the topping crisp?
Bake uncovered and avoid adding extra liquid to the filling.
Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, but the texture will be softer; adjust baking time slightly.
What should I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or classic Southern entrées.
Conclusion
Southern Squash Casserole remains a timeless dish that celebrates comfort, simplicity, and warm hospitality. With its creamy interior and golden, buttery crust, it brings nostalgic charm to any table. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this casserole fits seamlessly into both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether you follow the traditional method or personalise it with your own touches, this Southern classic promises dependable flavour and heartfelt comfort in every serving.
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