SLAP YOUR MAMA IT’S SO DELICIOUS SOUTHERN SQUASH CASSEROLE

SLAP YOUR MAMA IT’S SO DELICIOUS SOUTHERN SQUASH CASSEROLE 🍴✨

This Southern Squash Casserole is a classic Southern comfort dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs. Made with tender yellow squash, sautéed onions, and a rich sour cream and cheese mixture, this casserole is the ultimate side dish for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday feasts. Its bold flavors and textures are so good, they might just make you want to “slap your mama” (figuratively, of course)!

Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering casserole step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy & Cheesy : The combination of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheddar cheese creates a luscious base.
2. Crunchy Topping : Crushed Ritz crackers tossed in melted butter add a buttery, crispy finish.
3. Comfort Food Classic : A quintessential Southern dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
4. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for any home cook.
5. Perfect for Sharing : Great for potlucks, holidays, or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 2 lbs yellow squash , sliced 🍄
• 1 medium onion , diced 🧅
• 3 tablespoons butter , divided 🧈
• 1/2 cup sour cream 🥄
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup 🍲
• 2 large eggs , beaten 🥚
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper , to taste 🧂⚫
• 1½ cups crushed Ritz crackers 🍪
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Squash and Onions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter .
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
3. Add the sliced yellow squash to the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender but not mushy.
   • Tip : If there’s excess liquid in the skillet after cooking, drain it before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with the sour cream , cream of chicken soup , beaten eggs , cheddar cheese , garlic powder , paprika , salt , and pepper . Stir until well combined.
   • Optional : Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch!

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh squash and high-quality cheddar cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
2. Adjust Seasonings : Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick, or stir in fresh herbs like parsley or dill for brightness.
3. Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
4. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked portions in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
5. Switch Up the Crackers : Use crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a different texture.

Perfect Pairings

This Southern Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled Meats : Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak for a hearty meal.
• Southern Classics : Pair with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or collard greens for a true Southern feast.
• Roasted Vegetables : Serve with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of sweet tea for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~300 kcal
• Protein : ~8g
• Carbohydrates : ~20g
• Fat : ~22g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Squash Casserole is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, enjoying a family dinner, or celebrating a holiday, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction. The combination of tender squash, creamy filling, and buttery-crunchy topping creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is irresistible.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, adjust the toppings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your squash, crush those Ritz crackers, and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.