Delicious Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting and rich flavors of a Southern squash casserole. This dish blends fresh yellow squash with a creamy, cheesy base, then bakes to perfection with a golden, crispy topping. It’s the kind of recipe that takes you back to family dinners, with every bite filled with the warm and familiar tastes of Southern cuisine. Whether served as a side dish for a holiday meal or as a main course for a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The magic of Southern squash casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients like squash, cheese, and breadcrumbs, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. The combination of tender squash and savory seasonings, all enveloped in a creamy mixture, gives you a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Plus, the crispy topping adds just the right crunch to balance out the smoothness of the casserole. It’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in Southern kitchens.

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Ingredients for this recipe

• 4 cups of sliced yellow squash
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take a large skillet and sauté the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally, cooking them until the squash softens and the onion becomes translucent. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess liquid from the skillet to avoid a watery casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well-combined. Add the sautéed squash and onions into the bowl and gently stir everything together until the squash is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the squash mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly. In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle this buttery mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give it a deliciously crispy topping once it’s baked.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you’d like an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Once it’s finished, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 8g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?

Yes, zucchini can be substituted or mixed with yellow squash for a variation in color and flavor.

2. Is there a vegetarian alternative to cream of chicken soup?

Absolutely! Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian version.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

4. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier taste and lighter texture.

5. Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and a gluten-free cream soup.

6. What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a mild Colby cheese are great alternatives for variety.

7. How do I avoid a soggy casserole?

Make sure to sauté and drain the squash properly to remove excess moisture before baking.

8. Can I add meat to this casserole?

Yes! Cooked ground turkey, chicken, or bacon bits can be stirred into the mix for a heartier meal.

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