This Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with tender squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping. Perfect as a side or a light meal!
I love how this casserole makes veggies feel fancy! It’s so cheesy that you’ll forget you’re eating your greens. Just mix, bake, and enjoy a slice of creamy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of your casserole! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too. Just make sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. However, if you want something milder, mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack can be nice substitutes!
Mayonnaise: Mayo helps create that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, adding protein while cutting back on the fat.
Crackers: Buttery crackers add a nice crunch, but you can use cornbread crumbs or even panko for a different vibe. If you want to go gluten-free, look for gluten-free cracker options.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Runny?
Getting the right texture in your casserole is key! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to slice the squash thinly to help it cook properly.
- After slicing, consider letting the squash sit for a bit to release excess moisture. Pat them dry with a towel if needed.
- Mix the ingredients well; this allows the squash to absorb the creamy cheese mixture more evenly.
- Don’t skip the baking time! It allows everything to meld together into a deliciously creamy casserole.
Enjoy crafting this easy dish! It’s a great way to showcase squash in a fun, cheesy way that even picky eaters will love!
Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (or Ritz crackers)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and then requires 45-50 minutes to bake. Overall, plan for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish before you can enjoy this cheesy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 2-quart casserole dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, mix together the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion. Get those veggies all combined, so they’re ready to soak up the delicious flavors!
3. Mix the Cheese Mixture:
In another bowl, blend the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This will create a creamy base for your casserole!
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cheese mixture to the bowl with the squash and onion. Gently stir it all together until the squash is coated with the cheesy goodness.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the combined mixture into your greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes evenly throughout.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Make sure all the crumbs are well-coated with butter for that delicious, crunchy topping.
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the squash mixture in the casserole dish. This will create a lovely crunch that everyone will enjoy!
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45-50 minutes. It’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the topping is a nice golden-brown color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s baked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and savor every cheesy bite of your Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Southern Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, you can mix in other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly with the squash.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you want to lighten up the casserole, try using low-fat mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables to increase nutritional value without significantly increasing calories!
Can I Prep This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven. The baking time may be slightly longer if it’s still cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
