The Ultimate Southern Squash Casserole Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Southern cuisine is renowned for its hearty, comforting dishes, and one such classic is Southern Squash Casserole. This dish embodies the warmth and flavor of the South, featuring tender yellow squash, onions, cheese, and butter, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving some down-home cooking, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Join us as we dive into the world of Southern comfort food and learn how to create the perfect squash casserole.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs yellow squash, sliced
- 1/4 cup Land O’ Lakes butter + extra for topping
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 tsp Morton salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup grated Kraft sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup crackers, crushed (regular, not whole wheat)
- Extra crackers for topping. Ritz works great
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sliced yellow squash to the skillet. Cook until the squash is tender, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the beaten egg, salt, pepper, grated cheddar cheese, and crushed crackers. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with additional crushed crackers and dot with extra butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Southern Squash Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic along with the onions and squash.
- Want to make it extra cheesy? Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Craving some crunch? Add a layer of French-fried onions on top before baking.
- For a lighter version, use olive oil instead of butter and opt for whole wheat crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Add some paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can substitute frozen squash for fresh. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this casserole, you can make the following substitutions:
- Replace the crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener instead of regular crackers.
- Opt for a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream instead of the egg for binding.
- Increase the amount of cheese for added richness and flavor.
- Ensure any additional toppings are keto-friendly, such as crushed pork rinds or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Southern Squash Casserole is a beloved dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a truly comforting meal. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and hint of sweetness from the squash, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you stick to the classic version or try out some creative variations, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for Southern comfort food. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South right in your own kitchen!
