Southern Squash Casserole – Comfort Food at Its Finest

Southern Squash Casserole is a beloved dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. Made with tender squash, creamy cheese, and a crunchy, buttery cracker topping, it’s a staple of Southern cooking that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. Whether served as a side dish during holiday feasts or as a centerpiece for a casual family meal, this casserole is guaranteed to please.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 4–5 medium yellow squash, sliced into circles
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons bacon grease or butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup, as a variation)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten

For the Topping:

• 2 sleeves of saltine crackers or Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1 stick butter, melted

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Squash and Onion

• Heat the bacon grease or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the sliced squash and chopped onion, along with about 2 cups of water.
• Cook until the vegetables are softened, approximately 5–7 minutes.
• Drain the squash and onion mixture thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, eggs, evaporated milk, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Stir the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Squash and Wet Mixture

• Add the drained squash and onion mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients.
• Stir gently to ensure the squash is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• Pour the squash mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the Cracker Topping

• Crush the saltine crackers or Ritz crackers into small pieces and place them in a bowl.
• Pour the melted butter over the crushed crackers, stirring to coat them completely.
• Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the casserole for 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Variations

1. Protein Addition: Add cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled bacon to the casserole for a heartier main dish.
2. Vegetarian Option: Use cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom or chicken for a vegetarian version.
3. Herbed Topping: Mix fresh or dried herbs, such as thyme or parsley, into the cracker topping for added flavor.
4. Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free crackers for the topping if needed.
5. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda, for unique flavor profiles.

Cooking Notes

1. Proper Draining: Ensuring the squash and onion mixture is thoroughly drained is crucial. Excess moisture can result in a watery casserole.
2. Uniform Cooking: Slice the squash evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly in the skillet and bakes consistently in the casserole.
3. Cracker Options: Ritz crackers add a buttery richness, while saltines provide a slightly lighter, crisp topping. Choose based on personal preference.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Squash Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal:

• Serve alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or roasted turkey as a classic Southern side dish.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad and cornbread for a lighter, well-rounded meal.
• Add it to your holiday spread as a complement to green bean casserole, sweet potato pie, and cranberry sauce.

For potlucks or gatherings, this casserole is an easy-to-transport option that reheats beautifully.

Tips

1. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking.
2. Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F until heated through to maintain the crunchy topping.
3. Portion Control: For individual servings, divide the casserole mixture into ramekins and bake as single portions.
4. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the wet mixture for a hint of heat.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

35 minutes

Total Time:

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 9 grams
• Sodium: 600 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 22 grams
• Fat: 23 grams

FAQs

Can I freeze Southern Squash Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it without the topping, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed.

What other vegetables can I include?
Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added to the squash mixture for a medley of flavors and textures.

How do I make this casserole less rich?
Reduce the amount of cheese or replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dish.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of crackers for the topping?
Yes, a mixture of breadcrumbs and fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can be used for a lighter, herbaceous topping.

Conclusion

Southern Squash Casserole is the epitome of comforting, home-cooked goodness. With its tender squash, creamy cheese, and buttery cracker topping, it’s a dish that captures the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the warmth and richness of this timeless classic.