Irresistibly Cheesy Squash Casserole for Cozy Nights

As the aroma of sautéed onions and yellow squash fills your kitchen, you can almost hear laughter and stories swirling around the table. This is the essence of comfort food, and it shines through in Paula Deen’s beloved Squash Casserole. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of tender squash with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, topped with a crunchy layer of buttery crackers. Perfectly creamy and full of flavor, it’s a dish that comes together easily, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or festive family gatherings. Plus, with the option to customize by adding bacon or your favorite herbs, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. What variations will you dream up as you indulge in this Southern classic?

Why is Squash Casserole a Must-Try?

Comforting and Satisfying: This recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort food, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
Customizable for Everyone: Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, you can easily add bacon or swap in your favorite cheeses to suit your taste.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crunchy topping make it a guaranteed hit at any meal, appealing to guests of all ages!
Hearty Texture: The contrast of buttery, crispy cracker topping against the tender squash creates a delightful mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
Elevate your cooking by serving it alongside grilled meats or a fresh garden salad, and don’t forget to check out some variation ideas for a personalized touch!

Squash Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the squash from sticking to the pan; substitute with olive oil for a lighter flavor.
• Yellow Squash – The star of the dish that brings tender sweetness; fresh squash is ideal, but frozen works if thawed and drained.
• Vidalia Onion – Adds a gentle sweetness; any sweet onion can be a perfect alternative if Vidalia is unavailable.
• Butter – Enhances flavor and richness; it’s optional, but it really boosts the casserole’s depth.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides a delightful salty bite that compliments the casserole; Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper twist.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – The main cheese adding creaminess and flavor; feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
• Sour Cream – Infuses a wonderfully creamy texture with a slight tang; use dairy-free alternatives for a non-dairy option.

For the Topping

• Crushed Buttery Crackers – Creates a crunchy layer that everyone loves; gluten-free crackers are a great substitute for gluten-free options.

Experience the magic of squash casserole as you prepare this comforting dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Southern-Style Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of vegetable oil or butter to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your delightful squash casserole comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Cook the Squash and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the sliced yellow squash and Vidalia onion, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes until they’re fork-tender and have released moisture. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid to keep your squash casserole from becoming watery.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted, adding a rich flavor. Next, fold in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. This creamy mixture is the heart of your squash casserole.

Step 4: Transfer and Spread
Carefully pour the cheesy squash mixture into the greased baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. Make sure to distribute the mixture so that every bite of your finished casserole is creamy and flavorful.

Step 5: Add Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining grated Parmesan with 1 cup of crushed buttery crackers. Sprinkle this crunchy topping generously over the squash casserole, ensuring an even layer. Dot the top with small pieces of butter to give it that extra golden, crispy finish while baking.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place your prepared casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s ready when the topping is a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with deliciousness.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set a bit and make serving easier. Scoop out warm portions of the squash casserole as a comforting side dish, perfect for any Southern-inspired meal.

Make Ahead Options

Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious homemade comfort food even on your busiest nights! You can prepare the squash and onion mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the squash and Vidalia onion, drain the excess liquid, and combine with the other ingredients. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven and add the crushed cracker topping before baking as directed. This will ensure the casserole remains just as delicious and maintains that perfect crunchy texture, making meal planning a breeze!

Expert Tips for the Best Squash Casserole

• Drain Well: Ensure your squash is thoroughly drained after cooking to avoid a watery casserole. Excess moisture can dilute flavors and ruin the desired creamy texture.

• Customize Toppings: For an extra crunchy topping, finely crush the buttery crackers and mix in some fresh herbs or spices to elevate the flavor profile of your squash casserole.

• Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment! Different cheeses can completely transform your casserole. Try Monterey Jack for a milder taste or a mix of cheeses for depth.

• Mind the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling, giving you that perfect contrast of textures.

• Add Veggies: Don’t hesitate to sneak in other vegetables! Bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance nutrition and add a different flavor dimension to your squash casserole.

What to Serve with Southern-Style Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of this creamy, comforting dish.

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of juicy grilled chicken beautifully complement the rich, cheesy squash casserole.

• Roasted Pork Chops: Tender, savory pork chops add heartiness and a nice contrast to the casserole’s creaminess.

• Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole wonderfully.

• Cornbread: The slightly sweet, buttery cornbread is a classic Southern pairing that perfectly complements savory flavors.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender glazed carrots bring a delightful touch of color and sweetness to your table.

• Baked Beans: The smoky, sweet taste of baked beans offers a satisfying and hearty side that pairs beautifully with the casserole.

• Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, enhances the dish’s earthy tones and rich flavors.

Experience the warmth of a Southern-inspired meal by combining these options with your squash casserole!

Squash Casserole Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by trying out some creative twists and substitutions to elevate the flavors!

• Add Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky richness. The combination of bacon with cheese creates an indulgent treat.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap out sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor. Each cheese brings its unique creaminess that can change the whole dish.
• Fresh Herbs: Mixing in fresh thyme or parsley can brighten up the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds not only flavor but a lovely pop of color.
• Spices: For a bit of kick, add cayenne or paprika. These spices enhance the taste and bring a warmth that elevates this comfort food.
• Vegetable Additions: Bell peppers or mushrooms can be blended into the mix for added nutrition. Not only do they contribute to the flavor, but they also introduce lovely colors and textures.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheeses for a similar creamy texture without the dairy. This option ensures that everyone can indulge in this cozy dish!
• Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute crushed buttery crackers with gluten-free alternatives. Your guests won’t even notice the difference in texture and flavor.
• Layered Casserole: For a fun twist, layer the squash with sautéed veggies or cooked quinoa in between. This makes for a heartier meal that’s still bursting with flavor.

Check out these variations and let your culinary creativity flow!

How to Store and Freeze Squash Casserole

Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen squash casserole, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, bake as directed for a freshly made taste.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy squash casserole!

Southern-Style Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for yellow squash that feels firm and has smooth skin without any dark spots or blemishes. Choose ones that are heavy for their size, indicating freshness. If you’re opting for frozen squash, ensure it’s properly thawed and well-drained to maintain texture in your casserole.

How should I store leftovers of the squash casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze squash casserole for later use?
Very! You can freeze your squash casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed for a delicious, freshly made dish.

What should I do if my squash casserole turns out too watery?
If you find that your casserole is too watery, ensure that the squash is cooked and well-drained before mixing it into the casserole. It’s also helpful to avoid adding too much liquid from other ingredients, like sour cream. If it’s already baked, you can try baking it a bit longer to help evaporate some excess moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This squash casserole can easily be made dairy-free by using non-dairy sour cream and cheese alternatives. If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free crackers as a topping. Always double-check ingredients to ensure they are safe for any allergies your guests may have.