Slap Your Mama It’s So Delicious Southern Squash Casserole 🥄✨
Get ready to fall in love with this Southern Squash Casserole, a dish so creamy, cheesy, and downright comforting it’ll have everyone at the table begging for seconds! This recipe transforms humble yellow squash into a golden, bubbly masterpiece, topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust that’s pure perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, this casserole is guaranteed to steal the show. It’s so delicious, you might just want to slap your mama (but please don’t—just give her a hug and a big helping instead)! 😍 Let’s dive into this Southern classic that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs fresh yellow squash, washed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup sour cream (full-fat for maximum creaminess)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian twist)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (pre-shredded works, but fresh is best!)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds a subtle warmth)
- ¾ tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1½ cups Ritz crackers, crushed into coarse crumbs (about 1 sleeve)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy serving and cleanup. Set it aside while you work your magic.
- Cook the Veggies: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and diced onion, stirring occasionally. Let them cook for 10–12 minutes, until the squash is tender and the onions are soft and slightly caramelized. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies. Remove from heat and let cool for about 5 minutes to make mixing easier.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The cheese and soup create a luscious, velvety base that holds everything8 together, while the spices add just the right kick.
- Combine It All: Gently fold the slightly cooled squash and onion mixture into the creamy base. Stir carefully to ensure the veggies are evenly coated without breaking them apart too much. The goal is a cohesive mix that’s creamy but still has texture from the squash.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the squash mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to create a nice, even surface for the topping.
- Make the Buttery Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss until the crumbs are fully coated and glistening. Sprinkle this buttery goodness evenly over the casserole, creating a golden crown that’ll bake up crispy and irresistible.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cheesy, creamy goodness. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes. This resting time helps it set, making it easier to scoop and serve. Dish it up warm and watch your guests swoon over every bite!
Serving Suggestions
This Southern squash casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Serve it alongside fried chicken, glazed ham, or a juicy pot roast for a true Southern feast. It’s also fantastic with grilled pork chops or roasted turkey for holiday gatherings. For a lighter meal, pair it with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. Leftovers (if you have any!) reheat beautifully and make a cozy lunch the next day.
Tips for Success
- Squash Prep: If your squash is extra watery, sprinkle the slices with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 10 minutes before cooking. Pat dry to remove excess moisture for a thicker casserole.
- Cheese Swap: Try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. A little Gouda adds a smoky depth!
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the topping) up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the Ritz cracker topping just before baking to keep it crispy.
- Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup for a meat-free version that’s just as delicious.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in a handful of crushed cornflakes or panko with the Ritz crackers for an even crunchier topping.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
This dish is the epitome of Southern comfort—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The combination of tender squash, savory onions, and sharp cheddar, all topped with that buttery, golden crust, creates a texture and taste explosion that’s unforgettable. It’s a recipe that brings people together, whether you’re sharing it at a potluck, serving it at a family reunion, or just enjoying it at home with loved ones. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s called “Slap Your Mama” good!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the baked casserole (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add a fresh Ritz cracker topping, and bake as directed.
Get Cooking!
This Southern Squash Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a hug on a plate, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whip it up for your next gathering, and don’t be surprised when folks start asking for the recipe. What’s your favorite way to enjoy squash? Let us know in the comments below, and happy cooking! 🌟
