Southern Squash Casserole

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SLAP YOUR MAMA IT’S SO DELICIOUS Southern Squash Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Downright Irresistible

This classic Southern squash casserole is loaded with tender yellow squash, sweet onions, creamy soup, and sharp cheddar, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food side dish—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday supper.

Introduction: Southern Comfort in a Casserole Dish

If you’ve ever been to a Southern family gathering, chances are you’ve had a version of this dish. This Southern Squash Casserole is a staple on holiday tables and weeknight dinners alike. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, buttery cracker crust that’s downright addictive.

The name might be playful, but the flavor is serious business. Whether you’re introducing someone to the magic of squash casserole or bringing back memories of Grandma’s kitchen, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this casserole so rich and flavorful:

For the Casserole Base:

  • Yellow squash (2 lbs, sliced)
    Mild, tender, and slightly sweet—perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
  • Onion (1 medium, diced)
    Adds sweetness and depth.
  • Butter (3 tbsp)
    Used to sauté the vegetables and build flavor.
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
    Adds tang and creaminess.
  • Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
    The classic shortcut for a rich, savory base.
  • Eggs (2 large, beaten)
    Help bind the casserole and give it structure.
  • Cheddar cheese (1½ cups, shredded)
    Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and gooey texture.
  • Garlic powder (½ tsp)
    Adds a subtle savory note.
  • Paprika (½ tsp)
    Adds warmth and a hint of color.
  • Salt & black pepper
    To taste—season generously.

For the Topping:

  • Ritz crackers (1½ cups, crushed)
    Buttery and crisp—perfect for a golden topping.
  • Butter (3 tbsp, melted)
    Binds the crumbs and helps them brown beautifully.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat:

  • Melt 3 tbsp butter
  • Add 2 lbs sliced squash and 1 diced onion

Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:

  • Squash is tender
  • Onions are translucent and lightly golden

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Stir until smooth.

Add the cooled squash and onion mixture and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Spread evenly with a spatula

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl:

  • Combine 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers with 3 tbsp melted butter

Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until:

  • Top is golden brown
  • Filling is bubbly around the edges

Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Thanksgiving or Easter dinner
  • Sunday potlucks
  • Backyard BBQs
  • Weeknight comfort meals

Pair with:

  • Fried chicken or baked ham
  • Green beans or collard greens
  • Sweet tea or cornbread

Presentation Tip: Garnish with chopped parsley or a dusting of paprika for a pop of color.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Garlic & Herb

Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives to the filling.

Extra Cheesy

Mix in Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a richer flavor.

Bacon Boost

Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky twist.

Vegetarian Version

Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping) up to 1 day in advance. Add topping just before baking.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Tip: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 8)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: ~9g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~24g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~480mg
  • Fiber: ~2g

This casserole is:

  • Creamy and cheesy
  • Comforting and nostalgic
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Southern Squash Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of Southern hospitality, home-cooked flavor, and the kind of food that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, it’s guaranteed to steal the show.

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