Description
Southern comfort shines through Paula Deen’s irresistible squash casserole, a creamy classic packed with cheesy goodness. Golden-brown and bubbling with rich flavors, this dish promises a delightful journey into homestyle Southern cooking you’ll savor with every comforting bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 6 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 large Vidalia onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dairy and Creamy Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup sour cream
Cooking and Topping Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 sleeve of buttery crackers, crushed (medium to fine)
Instructions
- Prepare the kitchen workspace by preheating the oven to 350°F (177°C) and thoroughly greasing a 2-quart (1.9-liter) casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced summer squash, diced onions, and 2 tablespoons of butter, gently sautéing the vegetables until they become tender and slightly translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the softened vegetables to a spacious mixing bowl, allowing them to cool slightly and release excess moisture.
- Incorporate 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of sour cream into the vegetable mixture, stirring until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
- Spread the vegetable and cheese mixture uniformly into the prepared casserole dish, creating an even layer.
- Crush butter crackers or Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and sprinkle them generously across the top of the casserole, creating a crispy golden topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with melted cheese.
Notes
- Perfectly balanced slicing ensures even cooking and a harmonious texture throughout the dish.
- Gentle sautéing preserves the squash’s delicate flavor and prevents a soggy casserole consistency.
- Opt for block cheese you grate yourself, unlocking maximum melting potential and robust flavor profiles.
- Cracker crumbs create a golden, crispy topping that adds delightful crunch and buttery richness to the final presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg