Alright, friend! Let’s chat about a dinnertime hero that’s been saving my sanity (and feeding my family!) for years: Southern Squash Casserole.

I remember the first time I made Southern Squash Casserole. My youngest was going through a “yellow food only” phase 🙄, and I was desperate to find a way to sneak in some actual nutrition. A friend suggested Southern Squash Casserole, and while I was skeptical, I figured I had nothing to lose. I tweaked her recipe, added a few nutrition boosters (more on that later!), and crossed my fingers.

To my surprise, the kids devoured it! The cheesy topping and slightly sweet squash were a hit, and I was thrilled to have a new, easy way to get veggies on the table. This Southern Squash Casserole became a regular in our rotation, a simple nutrition win that I could always count on.

As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make healthy eating easier and more approachable. This Southern Squash Casserole is a perfect example of how you can create a delicious and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a simple dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy, and it’s packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for growing bodies.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless task of feeding your family, know that you’re not alone. We all struggle with getting healthy meals on the table, but with a few simple recipes and some clever nutrition hacks, it is possible to nourish your family without losing your mind! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this simple Southern Squash Casserole! This dish is a fantastic way to support your family’s nutrition and add some joy to your dinnertime routine. I hope this easy squash casserole recipe gives you some relief in your journey as a busy mom.

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need

Trust me, this Southern Squash Casserole ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! No crazy trips to specialty stores needed, just wholesome goodness you can find at your regular grocery store.

3 pounds yellow squash, sliced. Yellow squash is the star, packed with vitamins A and C!
1 medium onion, chopped. Adds flavor and a little extra fiber.
1/2 cup butter, melted. You can sub olive oil for a healthier twist.
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup. For a nutrition boost, try making your own cream sauce using milk and chicken broth!
1 cup sour cream. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for extra protein.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. I sometimes sneak in a little mozzarella for extra cheesiness – the kids never notice!
1/2 cup milk. Use whole milk for growing kids, or almond milk if you prefer.
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed. For a healthier crunch, try whole-wheat crackers or even toasted breadcrumbs.
1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping).
Salt and pepper to taste.

This Southern Squash Casserole proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive or complicated. You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store! If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, I sometimes use cream of mushroom with great results! My family gets extra nutrition when I add a handful of spinach to the squash while it’s cooking. The kids never even notice!

Here’s a Southern Squash Casserole nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the cracker topping. It adds a nutty flavor and a boost of omega-3s! You can find these ingredients at most supermarkets, ensuring your healthy Southern Squash Casserole journey is both smooth and budget-friendly!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Ready to whip up this Southern Squash Casserole? Don’t worry, it’s easier than folding laundry (and way more rewarding!). Let’s get started.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This is a good time to get the kids involved – even little ones can help stir!
In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Add sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Your Southern Squash Casserole should smell nourishing by now. This is a perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and milk. Mix well. This step is where you can customize the flavor with your favorite spices!
Add the cooked squash and onion to the cheese mixture. Stir to combine. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Southern Squash Casserole – I always added too much squash! Learn from my experience and don’t overcrowd the bowl.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Don’t worry if your Southern Squash Casserole looks a little uneven – it will all even out in the oven!
In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers and 1/4 cup melted butter. Sprinkle over the squash mixture. This topping adds a delicious crunch and a touch of sweetness.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Southern Squash Casserole usually takes closer to 40 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. While your Southern Squash Casserole is cooling, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!

This easy squash casserole recipe ensures your family is eating healthy without spending a fortune or hours in the kitchen. This Southern Squash Casserole will be a family favorite in no time!

How We Love to Eat This!

This Southern Squash Casserole is a dinnertime MVP in our house! It’s so versatile and pairs well with so many things. The kids devour this nutritious Southern Squash Casserole when I serve it with grilled chicken and a side of steamed broccoli. The broccoli adds extra vitamins and fiber, and the chicken provides lean protein.

We also love this Southern Squash Casserole as a side dish for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s a comforting and familiar dish that everyone enjoys! For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans on top for extra crunch and flavor. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast!

Presentation matters, even for busy families! I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese and some chopped fresh parsley on top of the Southern Squash Casserole before serving. It makes it look extra appealing and adds a pop of color. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day. I often pack them in the kids’ lunchboxes with a side of fruit and a yogurt tube.

I’ve even experimented with seasonal variations of this Southern Squash Casserole. In the fall, I add a little bit of butternut squash for extra sweetness and color. In the summer, I use fresh herbs like basil and oregano from my garden. My guests always rave about how delicious and healthy this Southern Squash Casserole is! They’re always surprised at how easy it is to make! If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for our cheesy green bean casserole.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

I know you probably have some questions about this Southern Squash Casserole, so let’s get to them! I’m here to help you feel confident and empowered in the kitchen.

Is this Southern Squash Casserole really nutritious enough for growing kids?

Absolutely! Yellow squash is packed with vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and healthy skin. Plus, the cheese provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.

What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Southern Squash Casserole?

I get it! Picky eaters are a challenge. Try letting them help you make the casserole. Kids are more likely to try foods they’ve helped prepare. You can also sneak in some extra veggies by finely dicing them and mixing them into the squash mixture.

Can I meal prep this Southern Squash Casserole for busy weeks ahead?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. You can even freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I make this Southern Squash Casserole vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based butter, vegan cream of mushroom soup, and dairy-free cheese. You can also substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

No problem! You can use any type of cracker or breadcrumb. I often use whole-wheat crackers for a healthier option. You can also toast some bread cubes in the oven and crush them for a homemade topping.

Can I add meat to this Southern Squash Casserole?

Yes! Cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or diced ham would all be delicious additions. Just add them to the squash mixture before baking. This is a great way to add extra protein and make the casserole a complete meal.

How do I prevent my Southern Squash Casserole from being watery?

The key is to cook the squash long enough to release excess moisture. You can also squeeze out any extra liquid before adding it to the cheese mixture. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out our Broccoli Cheese Casserole, which is another great option for getting your kids to eat their veggies.

These insights will help you adjust the Southern Squash Casserole to your family’s preferences and health requirements.

Final Thoughts:

This Southern Squash Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a dinnertime solution that supports your family’s nutrition goals without adding extra stress to your already busy life. It’s a simple, delicious, and nutritious way to get veggies on the table and keep everyone happy and healthy. This easy squash casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks with friends. If you’re looking for another easy casserole recipe, check out our Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe!

Here are My Southern Squash Casserole Nutrition Hacks that help maintain health in the family:

Add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the cracker topping for a boost of omega-3s.
Sneak in some extra veggies by finely dicing them and mixing them into the squash mixture.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.

We also love this simple Southern Squash Casserole.Here are a few family-tested healthy variations:

Spicy Squash Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a little kick.
Mediterranean Squash Casserole: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
Cheesy Squash Casserole: Add a generous amount of shredded cheese to the squash mixture and topping.

My kids love the Cheesy Squash Casserole, while my husband prefers the Mediterranean version. I encourage you to make this easy squash casserole recipe your own and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Most importantly, I hope this Southern Squash Casserole brings your family together around the table and helps you create lasting memories.

Remember, healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple recipes and some clever nutrition hacks, you can nourish your family without losing your mind! I believe in you, friend! You’ve got this! This is also a good Southern Squash Casserole recipe and similar recipe. Additionally, Southern Squash Casserole is a recipe that provides a similar nutritional experience. If you would like to spice it up, check out Ultimate Cheesy Squash Casserole.

Go ahead, try this nourishing Southern Squash Casserole and give your family the nutrition they need while keeping mealtime simple and joyful!

Southern Squash Casserole

Print Recipe

This classic Southern Squash Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Made with tender yellow squash, a cheesy sauce, and a crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Author: Juliette
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds yellow squash, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup butter, divided
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Add squash and onion; cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Stir in the cooked squash and onion mixture.
Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers and remaining 1/4 cup melted butter. Sprinkle over the squash mixture.
Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the squash mixture.