Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Nostalgic comfort fills the air when you reminisce about family gatherings centered around an Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe that speaks to the soul. The Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe effortlessly marries the smooth richness of a Creamy Squash Casserole with those classic Southern flavors that resonate through generations. It’s a dish embodying Southern comfort food, drawing warmth and flavor from a rich history of home-cooked meals shared over lively chatter and laughter.

As a child, my grandmother’s kitchen felt like a magical place, glowing with love and the wonderful aroma of dinner being crafted from scratch. Every family dinner was punctuated by excitement when I knew her famous Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe would make an appearance, its crispy Ritz topping irresistibly golden and inviting. Those evenings weren’t just meals; they were a tapestry of family stories and gentle wisdom shared over heaping, comforting plates.

If you’re looking to indulge in some classic Southern flavors, look no further than this delightful Yellow Squash Casserole recipe or this best classic version — both are perfect for capturing that old-school charm with every creamy bite.

Why You’ll Love This Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

• Easy to make – Whether you’re whipping up a classic Stove Top Squash Casserole or diving into the nostalgia with Jiffy, this dish uses simple steps with no need for fancy tools or techniques.
• Flexible – You can adjust flavors easily, maybe you’re in the mood for a Creamy Squash Casserole with cream cheese or prefer blending in a can of cream of chicken to switch up the flavor profile.
• Community Friendly – Ideal for family gatherings or entertaining guests, the crunchy topping of Ritz crackers creates a delightful contrast, sure to turn any regular day into something special.
• Customizable – From the creamy texture to the cheesy topping, you can make this dish truly your own with personal touches and ingredient swaps like opting for sour cream in your squash casserole.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Oven
• Spatula
• Baking dish
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Step 1: Preparation for the Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

• Unsalted butter, 6 Tbsp, divided
• Yellow squash, sliced 1/4-inch thick, 3 lbs. (from 5 medium squash)
• 1 medium-size yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 (8-oz.) container sour cream
• 4 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 2 oz. Swiss cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 2 sleeves round buttery crackers (such as Ritz), coarsely crushed
• 1 oz. Parmesan cheese, shredded (about 1/4 cup)

Step 2: Cooking the Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced yellow squash and chopped onion, and cook until the squash becomes tender. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Once tender, remove from heat and drain any excess moisture.

In a large bowl, mix together the drained squash mixture, lightly beaten eggs, sour cream, Cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, fresh thyme, black pepper, and the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir until all ingredients are well-combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assembling and Finishing

Grease a baking dish with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour the squash mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Combine crushed buttery crackers and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give the dish an irresistible golden crust.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling gently at the edges. Allow the Old School Southern Squash Casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving, giving the flavors time to meld together.

Tips for the Best Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe Every Time

To ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time, make sure to drain the cooked squash and onion well before combining it with the other ingredients. This helps prevent a watery consistency. Also, while mixing, ensure the eggs are fully incorporated to maintain a cohesive texture.

Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish

This recipe is ripe for customization! Try adding some diced ham or cooked bacon for a meaty twist, or spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat. For more cheese love, consider incorporating cream cheese into the mixture for a richer, denser casserole.

Perfect Sides to Serve with Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

This Squash Casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or a savory pot roast for a complete Southern meal. To add some color and keep with the Southern theme, consider a side of collard greens or a slice of fresh cornbread.

Occasions Perfect for This Recipe

Bring this dish to your next potluck or family gathering; it’s an ideal accompaniment for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or as a side for summer BBQs. Its comforting flavors are sure to be a hit with young and old alike, every time you serve it.

FAQs about Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Q: How do you keep a squash casserole from getting watery?

To keep your squash casserole from getting watery, make sure to thoroughly drain the cooked squash and onions before mixing with the other ingredients. It’s also helpful to not overbake the dish to maintain the perfect consistency.

Q: Can you use zucchini instead of yellow squash in a casserole?

Yes, you can definitely substitute zucchini for yellow squash in a squash casserole. Both have similar textures, and using zucchini can add a slightly different, yet still delicious flavor to the dish.

Q: Do you put eggs in a squash casserole?

Yes, eggs are a common ingredient in a traditional squash casserole as they help bind the ingredients together, resulting in a more cohesive and firm texture.

Q: What is the best way to prepare squash for a casserole?

The best way to prepare squash for a casserole is to slice it evenly, about 1/4-inch thick. Cook the squash and onion together until they’re tender, then drain any excess liquid before mixing with other ingredients.

Q: How long does a squash casserole last in the fridge?

A squash casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s covered properly or stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Savor the Tradition with This Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Embracing the heartwarming essence of Southern cooking, this recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy textures and savory flavors, all crowned with a crispy Ritz topping. Whether it’s a Creamy Squash Casserole or a nostalgic Squash Casserole With Sour Cream, the adaptable nature of this dish allows you to make it your own. Perfect for family gatherings or solo dinners, it captures the cherished memories of home-cooked meals.

Ready for more culinary adventure? Try out the best classic version that perfectly complements any Southern spread!

We hope you enjoy creating and sharing this Old School Southern Squash Casserole Recipe as much as we enjoyed sharing it with you. Don’t forget to leave a comment or a review to let us know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!