Southern Squash Casserole 4 Ways

Name: Southern Squash Casserole 4 Ways
Prep time: PT-488867H12M52S
Cook time: PT-488867H12M52S
Total time: PT-488867H12M52S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 4 small to medium squashes); 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup crushed buttery crackers; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing); Optional garnish: fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)

by Fenna Saul

September 11, 2025

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Southern Squash Casserole Incredible flavor is something I grew up with, and I’ve always loved the comforting embrace of this classic dish. My grandmother used to make an old fashioned southern squash casserole that filled our home with the most amazing aroma. Even now, the smell of buttery crackers baking on top takes me right back to those summer evenings. This Incredible southern squash casserole is so easy to whip up, and it’s become my go-to for potlucks and family dinners because it always disappears fast. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Incredible Southern Squash Casserole

This Incredible southern squash casserole is a winner for so many reasons:

Unbeatable taste: It’s perfectly balanced with savory, cheesy goodness.
Quick prep time: You can have it ready for the oven in under 30 minutes.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters adore this comforting dish.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely have on hand.
Flavor explosion: Enjoy a truly creamy southern squash casserole experience.
Pure comfort food: It’s the ultimate side dish for any meal.
Seriously satisfying: Get ready for a wonderfully cheesy southern squash casserole that everyone will rave about.
Versatile: Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fried chicken, or as a standalone vegetarian option.

Ingredients for Authentic Southern Squash Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious southern yellow squash casserole. I love how accessible everything is, making this a go-to recipe whenever I have extra summer squash. For more recipe inspiration, check out our full recipe collection.

4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 4 small to medium squashes) – make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor.
1 cup chopped onion – adds a lovely savory depth.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that irresistible cheesy goodness.
1 cup crushed buttery crackers – these create the perfect crunchy topping.
2 large eggs – they act as a binder for the casserole.
½ cup milk – helps create a creamy texture.
1 tablespoon mayonnaise – this little addition makes it wonderfully rich.
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of warmth.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – a classic flavor enhancer.
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing) – to soften the onions and squash.
Optional garnish: fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)

How to Make Southern Squash Casserole

Let’s get this easy southern squash casserole recipe going! It’s surprisingly simple to put together, and the results are absolutely worth it.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ready for the magic to happen.
Step 2: Wash your yellow squash thoroughly and then slice them into nice, thin rounds. This is key for even cooking.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your 1 cup chopped onion and sauté until they become beautifully translucent and smell amazing. Then, add the 4 cups sliced yellow squash. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, just until they start to soften slightly. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs, ½ cup milk, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Whisk until everything is perfectly blended and smooth.
Step 5: Now, stir in the sautéed squash and onion mixture. Add half of the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to this wet mixture.
Step 6: Gently fold in half of the 1 cup crushed buttery crackers. You want them well integrated into the squash mixture.
Step 7: Pour the entire glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so you get that perfect layer.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crushed crackers over the top. This creates that signature crispy, golden crust that makes this casserole so irresistible.
Step 9: Carefully place the casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for that top to be a beautiful golden brown and the casserole to be bubbling around the edges.
Step 10: Once it’s done, remove the Southern Squash Casserole from the oven. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps it set up perfectly, making it easier to serve this delicious dish. Knowing how to make southern squash casserole has never been easier!

Southern Squash Casserole 4 Ways - Southern Squash Casserole Incredible - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Squash Casserole

I’ve made this dish countless times, and a few tricks really elevate it to perfection. These tips ensure your casserole is always a hit!

Always use fresh, firm yellow squash. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes.
Don’t skip sautéing the squash and onions; it removes excess water and builds flavor.
For an extra-creamy texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the mayonnaise.
If you don’t have buttery crackers, Ritz crackers are my absolute favorite substitute for that classic taste.

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Squash Casserole?

The magic lies in a few key elements: sautéing the squash to remove moisture, using buttery crackers for a delicious crunch, and that slight touch of mayonnaise for a truly creamy southern squash casserole. Getting these right makes all the difference. For more tips on achieving perfect textures, you might find resources on essential cooking techniques helpful.

Can I make Southern Squash Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the casserole mixture (up to the point of adding the topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed, perhaps adding a few extra minutes if it’s very cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Squash Casserole?

A common pitfall is a watery casserole, which happens if you don’t sauté the squash first. Also, don’t overbake; you want a golden-brown topping and bubbly interior, not dry edges. For a perfect southern baked squash casserole, watch it closely towards the end of the baking time. Learning about proper baking temperatures can be found on sites like King Arthur Baking.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Squash Casserole

This delicious southern squash casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of main dishes. It’s the perfect comforting side for a summer barbecue, complementing grilled chicken or pork chops wonderfully. For a classic Southern meal, serve it alongside fried chicken and cornbread. It also makes a fantastic addition to holiday spreads, offering a lighter, yet still satisfying, option next to roasted turkey or ham. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness! If you’re looking for other great side dishes, consider our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Southern Squash Casserole 4 Ways - Southern Squash Casserole Incredible - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Southern Squash Casserole

This Incredible southern squash casserole is a delightful side dish, and knowing its nutritional breakdown helps when planning your meals. Here’s a look at what you can expect per serving of this classic Southern yellow squash casserole:

Calories: 220 kcal
Fat: 12g
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutrition, you can consult resources like the MyFitnessPal database.

How to Store and Reheat Southern Squash Casserole

Once your delicious Southern Squash Casserole has cooled down a bit, storing leftovers is a breeze. I usually let it sit on the counter for about 20-30 minutes to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent steam buildup, which can make it soggy. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, and it reheats beautifully. For longer storage, this casserole freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is super simple. For a quick southern squash casserole experience, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier topping, I recommend reheating it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and the topping is golden again. It’s almost as good as the first time! If you’re looking for other comforting dishes, try our turkey meatloaf recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Squash Casserole

What is Southern Squash Casserole?

Southern Squash Casserole is a beloved side dish that embodies classic Southern comfort food. It typically features sliced yellow squash baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce, often topped with buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. It’s a staple at family gatherings and potlucks for good reason!

Why is Southern Squash Casserole so good?

The reason why is southern squash casserole so good lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors. You get the tender, slightly sweet squash, the rich and creamy sauce, the savory cheese, and that irresistible crispy topping. It’s a harmonious blend that makes it incredibly satisfying and a crowd-pleaser every time. For a similar crowd-pleasing appetizer, check out our boat dip rotel ranch dip.

Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?

Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini makes a fantastic substitute for this Incredible southern squash casserole. Just be sure to slice it thinly and sauté it a bit longer than yellow squash to release excess moisture, ensuring your casserole isn’t watery.

How do I make this a healthier Southern Squash Casserole?

To make a healthier southern squash casserole, you can opt for whole wheat crackers or breadcrumbs, use reduced-fat cheese and milk, and perhaps add more vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or spinach to the mix. It still retains that delicious Southern charm! For other healthy options, explore our Zepbound weight loss recipes.

Variations of Southern Squash Casserole You Can Try

While the classic recipe is divine, this Incredible southern squash casserole is wonderfully adaptable! If you’re looking for a delicious vegetarian southern squash casserole, this recipe is already perfect as is. For those who love that signature crunch, using southern squash casserole with breadcrumbs instead of crackers is a fantastic alternative, especially if you opt for panko for extra crispiness. You can also swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack or a sharp Gruyère for a different cheesy profile. For a spicier kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the onions and squash. Experimenting is half the fun, and each variation offers a slightly different, yet equally scrumptious, take on this beloved Southern favorite! If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, you might also like our Korean BBQ meatballs.