This Cozy Southern Cheese and Squash Casserole is the perfect comfort dish! It’s packed with tender squash and creamy cheese, making every bite warm and inviting.
I love how easy it is to whip up this casserole. Just mix, bake, and savor the cheesy goodness! It’s a hit at family dinners, and who doesn’t love a little extra cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute. They have a similar taste and texture, and the casserole will still be delicious.
Cheeses: I love using sharp cheddar and mozzarella for their flavors and meltiness. If you’re looking for alternatives, gouda or pepper jack can add a tasty twist. Just remember to use cheese that melts well!
Sour Cream: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well instead of sour cream. It gives a nice creaminess and a slight tang. You can also use a non-dairy option if needed!
Cornmeal: Gives a lovely texture to the casserole. If you’re out of cornmeal, you can use fine breadcrumbs or omit it altogether if you’re looking to cut down on carbs.
How Can I Prevent My Casserole from Being Watery?
One common issue is excess moisture from the squash. To avoid this, pre-cook the squash to help remove water. Follow these steps:
- Boil the squash and onion briefly, around 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
- After draining, take a clean towel and press down gently to absorb any remaining moisture.
- You might also want to let them cool a bit before mixing with the other ingredients; this can help reduce extra steam.
Following these tips will keep your casserole nice and firm, ensuring every bite is full of flavor and not soggy!
Cozy Southern Cheese and Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 3-4 medium squash)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake, plus a 10-minute cooling time. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 10 minutes before you can dive into this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash:
In a large pot, fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until they’re just tender, but still crisp. After draining, use a clean towel or paper towels to press out any excess moisture.
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients:
Now, stir in the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Just mix until everything is combined—don’t overmix!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold in the cooked yellow squash and onion. Then, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Make sure everything is mixed well but gently, so you keep that nice texture.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. This will ensure every bite is evenly delicious!
7. Add Topping:
Sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will create a lovely crunchy layer when baked.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. It’s ready when it’s set, golden on top, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up a bit. Now, dig in and enjoy this comforting Southern dish as a side or a main! Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Enjoy this cozy Southern casserole warm as a comforting side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main!
FAQ for Cozy Southern Cheese and Squash Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional, zucchini is a great substitute if you prefer. Both have similar texture and flavor, which works perfectly in the casserole.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the topping from getting too brown.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble it in the dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your cornmeal and any breadcrumbs used are certified gluten-free.
