Description
This Southern Squash Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish featuring tender sautéed yellow squash combined with onions, eggs, sour cream, and spices, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect as a flavorful side or a vegetarian main, it showcases classic Southern flavors with a creamy texture and crisp topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 3 pounds yellow squash, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
- 3 Tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Sauté Squash and Onion: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash, diced onion, and half a teaspoon of salt. Cook until the squash becomes tender and onions soften, about 8 to 10 minutes. Then drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and the remaining half teaspoon of salt. This mixture will bind and flavor the casserole.
- Combine Squash Mixture: Fold the cooked squash and onion gently into the egg mixture until everything is thoroughly combined but still light and fluffy.
- Assemble in Casserole Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges, indicating it is fully cooked.
Notes
- Drain excess liquid thoroughly after sautéing squash to prevent a soggy casserole.
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a sharp or mild cheddar based on your preference.
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly, but be cautious as it can become overpowering.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor melding.
- Make sure to crush the Ritz crackers finely for an even topping texture.
