The Best Squash Casserole

Every Southern kitchen holds the secret to transforming ordinary vegetables into extraordinary comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. Through generations of perfecting traditional techniques and understanding how simple ingredients create complex flavors, I've mastered this squash casserole that captures the essence of Southern hospitality in every golden, cheesy bite. This recipe proves that the most cherished family dishes honor our culinary heritage while creating new memories that last a lifetime.

What is Squash Casserole

Squash casserole is a traditional Southern comfort food dish that combines tender sliced yellow squash with a creamy, seasoned sauce and a golden, crunchy topping, creating layers of texture and flavor in every bite. Unlike simple sautéed squash, this baked casserole concentrates the vegetable's natural sweetness while adding richness from cheese and cream, then finishing with a crispy top layer that provides textural contrast. The result is a side dish that transforms ordinary summer squash into an irresistible comfort food experience.

How To Make Squash Casserole

Our classic squash casserole uses the perfect ratio of tender squash to creamy sauce, ensuring each bite delivers both vegetable flavor and rich comfort. The secret is properly draining the cooked squash to prevent watery casserole, then combining it with a mixture of cheese, eggs, and seasonings that bakes into a custard-like consistency. This traditional technique creates a casserole that holds together beautifully while remaining creamy and flavorful.

Squash Casserole Ingredients

For the Squash Base:

• 3 pounds yellow summer squash, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Mixture:

• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ cup additional cheddar cheese

Hannah's Step by Step Method

Cook Squash to Perfect Tenderness

• Slice yellow squash into ¼-inch rounds for even cooking
• Sauté squash and onion in butter until very tender
• Season with salt and pepper during cooking process
• Drain thoroughly in colander to remove excess moisture

Create Creamy Binding Mixture

• Beat eggs in large bowl until smooth and well combined
• Mix in sour cream, mayonnaise, and sugar for richness
• Add shredded cheese and garlic powder for flavor depth
• Combine until mixture is smooth and creamy throughout

Combine Components Properly

• Fold drained squash mixture into creamy egg mixture gently
• Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for perfect flavor
• Transfer mixture to greased 9x13 inch baking dish
• Spread evenly for consistent cooking throughout casserole

Add Crunchy Topping and Bake

• Crush Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter until moistened
• Sprinkle cracker mixture evenly over squash mixture
• Top with additional cheese for golden, bubbly finish
• Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until set and golden

What Pairs Well With Squash Casserole?

This comforting squash casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fried catfish, or honey ham for classic Southern dinner combinations. Try it alongside cornbread, green beans, or coleslaw for traditional family meal spreads. For special occasions, serve with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for holiday gatherings that celebrate seasonal comfort food.

Squash Casserole Variations

Lightened Greek Yogurt Version:

• Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt
• Use reduced-fat cheese and less mayonnaise
• Add extra herbs for bright flavor
• Healthier but still creamy and satisfying

Zucchini and Squash Combo:

• Use half yellow squash, half zucchini
• Add fresh basil and oregano for Italian flair
• Include diced tomatoes for extra vegetables
• Garden-fresh summer vegetable medley

Cornbread Topped:

• Replace cracker topping with cornbread crumbs
• Add jalapeños for Southern heat
• Use sharp white cheddar for tang
• Perfect for barbecue gatherings

Low-Carb Cauliflower Addition:

• Add steamed cauliflower to squash mixture
• Use crushed pork rinds instead of crackers
• Extra cheese for keto-friendly richness
• Satisfying without the carbs

Essential Equipment:

• Large skillet for cooking squash
• Colander for proper draining
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl for combining

Storage Tips

Best Fresh

Serve hot from the oven for the best contrast between creamy interior and crispy topping. Fresh casserole has the most appealing texture.

Leftover Storage

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead Method

Assemble casserole completely without topping and refrigerate overnight. Add topping and bake, adding 10 extra minutes for cold start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Southern Comfort Made Simple

Now you have the secrets to creating this incredible squash casserole that transforms humble summer vegetables into the most beloved side dish at any gathering. This recipe proves that the most satisfying comfort foods honor traditional techniques while celebrating seasonal produce.

Ready for more Southern classics? Try our Stuffed Bell Peppers for hearty comfort food mains, or explore our Au Gratin Potatoes for another creamy, cheesy side dish perfection. For traditional casseroles, our Chicken Pot Pie Casserole uses similar baking techniques with family-favorite results.

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