There’s something so comforting about Southern Squash Casserole. It’s a dish that takes me back to family gatherings, where the smell of baked squash, buttery crumbs, and savory seasonings filled the house. This casserole is a staple at potlucks, holiday dinners, and Sunday family meals, and it’s easy to see why—it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.
In this recipe, tender squash is combined with a creamy, cheesy base and topped with buttery breadcrumbs, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this Southern Squash Casserole is sure to be a hit.
Short Description
Southern Squash Casserole is a classic, comforting side dish that combines tender squash with creamy cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinners, this casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food.
Key Ingredients
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for stirring
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes tender and the onions are translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess moisture from the squash mixture.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion mixture with the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture over the top, covering the casserole completely.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with fried chicken, barbecue, or any of your favorite Southern meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Cheesy – The combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy base that brings out the sweetness of the squash.
- Perfectly Crunchy Topping – The buttery breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch to contrast the creamy filling.
- Classic Comfort Food – This casserole is a true Southern favorite, a dish that brings people together around the table.
- Simple to Make – With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this casserole comes together quickly for a delicious side dish.
Tips & Variations
- Add Extra Veggies – You can easily add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the casserole for a more colorful, veggie-packed dish.
- Spice It Up – If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the casserole mixture.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version of this casserole.
- Make It Ahead – You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Storage Tips
- Store Leftovers – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat – Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.
FAQs
Can I use frozen squash?
Fresh squash is best for this recipe, but if you need to use frozen squash, be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese in place of mayonnaise for a slightly tangier flavor.
Can I make this casserole without cheese?
While the cheese adds a creamy richness, you can omit it for a lighter version, though it won’t have the same cheesy flavor.
Final Thoughts
Southern Squash Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the mild flavor of squash with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s easy to make, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole will steal the show every time. It’s a dish that captures the heart of Southern cooking, with every bite offering a little taste of home.