How do you make Southern squash casserole step-by-step?

To make Southern squash casserole, start by slicing and sautéing yellow squash and onions until tender to reduce moisture. Drain any excess liquid by placing the mixture in a colander lined with a towel, pressing gently. In a bowl, combine the squash mixture with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and a beaten egg. Pour into a greased baking dish, then top with crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and bubbly.

Should I peel yellow squash before cooking for casserole?

No, you do not need to peel yellow squash before cooking it for casserole. The skin is thin and softens during cooking, helping the squash hold its texture. Just be sure to wash the squash thoroughly to remove any dirt or residues before slicing and cooking.

Why does my squash casserole turn out watery and how can I fix it?

Squash holds a lot of water, which can make your casserole watery if not properly prepared. To prevent this, avoid boiling the squash; instead, sauté it to release moisture. After cooking, drain the squash well by placing it in a colander lined with a clean towel and gently pressing out liquid. Removing excess moisture will help your casserole achieve a creamy but not soggy texture.

Can I prepare Southern squash casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?

Yes, Southern squash casserole can be prepared ahead. Assemble the casserole but hold off on adding the cracker topping. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed. This makes mealtime easier without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Is it possible to freeze squash casserole, and what is the best method?

You can freeze squash casserole, but it’s best to freeze it unbaked for best texture. Prepare the casserole without the topping, wrap tightly in freezer-safe foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the crushed cracker topping, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. You can also freeze leftovers after baking, but the topping may lose its crispness upon reheating.

Southern Squash Casserole Recipe With Creamy Cheese And Crispy Topping

Name: Southern Squash Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 pounds yellow squash, sliced ¼ inch thick (about 5 medium); ¼ cup butter; ½ cup diced onion; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup sour cream; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup butter crackers, finely crushed (about 25 crackers)

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds yellow squash, sliced ¼ inch thick (about 5 medium)

¼ cup butter

½ cup diced onion

½ teaspoon garlic powder

¾ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup sour cream

1 large egg, beaten

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup butter crackers, finely crushed (about 25 crackers)

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Instructions

1-Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for 7-8 minutes until it turns soft and translucent.

2-Add the sliced squash and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring often to release moisture and keep it from browning too much.

3-Drain the cooked squash and onions in a colander lined with a towel for at least 5 minutes, pressing firmly to get rid of extra water.

4-In a bowl, mix the drained squash and onions with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, sour cream, the beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.

5-Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, then stir it into the finely crushed crackers along with the rest of the grated Parmesan cheese.

6-Spread the squash mixture evenly into a 1.5-quart baking dish.

7-Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the squash mixture.

8-Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Last Step:

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Notes

🎃 Cook squash with peel on for better texture and to prevent falling apart.
💧 Thorough draining and pressing of cooked squash and onions prevents watery casserole.
❄️ Prepare ahead by assembling the squash mixture and refrigerating; add topping before baking.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Casserole
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving