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Get The Product!There’s something about Southern Squash Casserole that instantly transports me to a sun-drenched porch, where the warm breeze carries laughter and the mouthwatering aroma of baked goodness. Picture this: golden squash mingling with creamy cheese, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer that promises delightful texture in every bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, and one whiff of this dish bubbling away in the oven will have you anticipating a flavor explosion like no other. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
I remember the first time I tasted this casserole at a family reunion. My Aunt Betty courageously brought it as her “fancy dish,” and let me tell you, the crowd went wild! People dove into that casserole like it was an Olympic sport, and by the end of dinner, all that remained was an empty dish and some very happy faces. Now, I whip it up for any occasion—be it Sunday dinners or potlucks—because who can resist such cheesy, squashy joy? For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Southern Squash Casserole is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- It’s incredibly versatile; serve as a side or main dish!
- Plus, leftovers are just as delicious, making meal prep a breeze
Sharing this recipe with friends always brings back memories of laughter and good company around the dinner table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Yellow Squash: Choose fresh and firm squash for sweetness; aim for about four medium-sized ones.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth; if you’re feeling adventurous, try sweet onions for extra flavor.
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Cream of Mushroom Soup: This brings a creamy consistency; feel free to use homemade if you’re feeling fancy.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best here; it melts beautifully and gives a rich flavor.
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Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor; they create that perfect crispy topping everyone loves.
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Eggs: These bind everything together; make sure they’re well-beaten before mixing.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
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Butter: Melted butter enhances richness—don’t skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Southern Squash Casserole
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. This casserole loves being pampered!
Prepare your squash by washing it thoroughly and slicing it into thin rounds. You want them tender but not mushy—think of them as little yellow coins ready to join the party!
Next up, chop the onion finely. Sautéing those bits in a skillet with some butter until they turn translucent releases their sweet aroma that makes your kitchen smell divine.
In a large mixing bowl, combine those lovely sautéed onions with your sliced squash. Add in cream of mushroom soup and beaten eggs, stirring everything together until well combined. You want each piece of squash coated in that creamy goodness!
Now comes the fun part: fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This melty magic will blend perfectly during baking!
Transfer this luscious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs. Drizzle melted butter over everything—it’s like giving your casserole a warm hug!
Finally, pop it in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen is filled with that irresistible cheesy aroma!
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Trust me; those few moments are worth waiting for as all flavors settle down nicely.
Enjoy this Southern Squash Casserole alongside grilled meats or simply on its own as a delightful main course!
You Must Know
- The Southern Squash Casserole is a Southern staple that brings comfort and joy
- Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then mix with squash and bake until golden brown. This sequence ensures the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the squash tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap yellow squash for zucchini or add cooked bacon for an extra savory kick. Experimenting with spices like paprika or cayenne can also elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your squash before adding salt; some varieties can be quite salty on their own
- When mixing ingredients, be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in a gummy texture
- Let the casserole rest before serving; this allows flavors to develop beautifully
Sometimes I serve this dish at family gatherings, and the compliments never stop flowing—it’s always heartwarming to see everyone enjoy something so simple yet delicious!
FAQ
Can I make Southern Squash Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead and bake just before serving.
What can I substitute for dairy in this recipe?
Use almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version of Southern Squash Casserole.
How do I prevent my casserole from being watery?
Squeeze excess moisture from the squash before mixing to avoid a soggy texture.
Southern Squash Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Southern Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender yellow squash with creamy cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this casserole is both easy to prepare and satisfying. The blend of textures and flavors creates a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Wash and slice the yellow squash into thin rounds.
- Sauté chopped onions in butter until translucent.
- In a large bowl, mix sautéed onions, sliced squash, cream of mushroom soup, eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Fold in half of the cheddar cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs, then drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
