SLAP YOUR MAMA IT’S SO DELICIOUS SOUTHERN SQUASH CASSEROLE

 This Southern Squash Casserole is a down-home, creamy, cheesy dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Packed with tender yellow squash, savory onions, and a buttery topping, this casserole is a true Southern staple that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday spreads. The combination of fresh summer squash, rich creaminess, and a crispy, crunchy topping will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds). It’s so good, it might just inspire some playful hyperbole—like "slap your mama" levels of deliciousness! Let’s whip up this soul-warming dish and savor every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Southern Comfort: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—it’s the ultimate side dish.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh squash for an easy yet impressive dish.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Add bacon, cheese, or herbs to make it your own.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 1–1.5 lbs)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve buttery crackers (such as Ritz), crushed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp melted butter

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Squash

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
2. Drain the squash in a colander and let it cool slightly. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press out excess moisture—this step ensures your casserole isn’t watery.

2. Sauté the Onions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Set aside.

3. Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, sautéed onions, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Prepare the Topping

1. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.

2. 5. Assemble and Bake

   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   2. Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
   3. Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the squash mixture, pressing it down slightly to help it adhere.
   4. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

   6. Serve and Enjoy

   1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
   2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite Southern dishes.

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   Serving Suggestions

   • For Dinner: Pair with fried chicken, grilled steak, or pork chops for a hearty meal.
   • At Gatherings: Bring to potlucks or holiday dinners—it’s always a hit!
   • With Sides: Serve alongside cornbread, green beans, or a crisp salad for a complete Southern feast.
   • Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best results.

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   Pro Tips for Success

   • Don’t Skip Pressing the Squash: Removing excess moisture prevents a soggy casserole.
   • Add Bacon: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture.
   • Use Fresh Herbs: Add chopped chives, thyme, or parsley to the filling for a fresh twist.
   • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

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   Final Thoughts

   This Southern Squash Casserole is a love letter to comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery crunch that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a taste of Southern hospitality, this dish delivers big on flavor and nostalgia.

   So grab your squash, crush those crackers, and bake up this mouthwatering casserole. One bite of this creamy, crunchy delight, and you’ll understand why it’s so good, it might just inspire some playful exclamations—one cheesy, squash-filled bite at a time! 🍛✨