Southern Squash Casserole

A Comfort Food Classic Straight From the Heart of the South

If there’s one dish that screams Southern comfort and always earns a spot at family gatherings, Sunday suppers, and holiday tables, it’s the beloved Southern Squash Casserole. With buttery yellow squash, tender onions, creamy filling, and a crispy topping, this dish captures everything we love about warm, wholesome, home-cooked meals.

Whether you’re using up fresh summer squash from your garden or snagging some from the farmer’s market, this casserole is simple, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s especially perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving dinners, or when you’re craving a nostalgic bite of the South.

🌽 Why This Recipe Works

This recipe takes the humble yellow squash and transforms it into something irresistibly delicious. The squash is sautéed with onion and butter until tender, then mixed with a creamy, cheesy filling. Finally, it’s topped with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy finish. The combination of soft, flavorful vegetables and a crunchy topping creates that classic Southern contrast we all know and love.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this traditional squash casserole:

4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 1 to 1.5 lbs)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise

1 large egg, beaten

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

½ cup crushed buttery crackers or plain breadcrumbs (like Ritz or Club crackers)

1 tablespoon melted butter (for the topping)

Optional: Add a pinch of paprika or chopped fresh parsley for garnish.

👩‍🍳 How To Make Southern Squash Casserole

This dish comes together easily with just a few simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch casserole dish.

2. Sauté the Squash and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender—about 8–10 minutes. Drain off any excess moisture and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Cooked squash and onion mixture

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream (or mayo)

1 beaten egg

½ tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Mix gently until everything is well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the squash mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread evenly.

In a small bowl, combine:

½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon melted butter

Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

💡 Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

Drain Well: If the squash releases too much water during cooking, drain it or pat it dry with a paper towel before mixing.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheddar blend if you’re out of plain cheddar.

Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the topping and bake when ready.

For a richer flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a handful of grated Parmesan.

Double It: Feeding a crowd? Double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch dish.

🥄 Serving Suggestions

Southern Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with all your favorite main dishes. Here are some tasty ways to serve it:

🐔 With fried chicken or baked chicken thighs

🥩 Alongside meatloaf, smothered pork chops, or country-fried steak

🌽 As part of a veggie plate with collard greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread

🍖 With barbecue ribs or pulled pork at your next cookout

🦃 On your holiday table with turkey and all the fixins

Don’t be surprised when folks come back for seconds—and ask for the recipe!

🔁 Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat: Bake at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

This casserole reheats beautifully and makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.

🧡 Southern Tradition in Every Bite

There’s something so nostalgic and heartwarming about digging into a scoop of squash casserole. The tender squash, creamy filling, and buttery topping blend into a bite that reminds us of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house or big family reunions full of food, laughter, and love.

Even if you didn’t grow up in the South, this dish will make you feel right at home. It’s simple, affordable, and absolutely delicious—proof that the best recipes don’t need to be complicated to be memorable.

💬 What Readers Are Saying

“This was my grandmother’s favorite dish—I made it for Easter and it tasted just like hers.” – Carla J.

“My picky kids ate it up and asked for seconds. That never happens with vegetables!” – Marcus B.

“The crunchy cracker topping takes it to the next level. Will be making this again for Thanksgiving!” – Annette W.

📌 Save This Recipe for Later

✅ Perfect for potlucks
✅ Family-friendly
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Quick and easy

Whether you’re serving a crowd or just making dinner for two, this Southern Squash Casserole brings flavor, comfort, and a touch of Southern hospitality to your table.

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