Savory Southern Baked Yellow Squash Casserole
This Savory Southern Baked Yellow Squash Casserole pays homage to Aunt Fanny's beloved restaurant in Smyrna, Georgia, where comforting, home-cooked meals made every guest feel like family. This delightful dish combines tender yellow squash and sweet onions, all brought together by a creamy, buttery mixture, topped with a crispy layer of cracker meal or breadcrumbs. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, it's a classic side that pairs beautifully with any main course and will transport you back to days spent around the dining table, sharing stories and laughter with loved ones.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
yellow squash
3 lbs (washed and cut up)
onion
1/2 cup (roughly chopped)
cracker meal or breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (for topping)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
eggs
2 (beaten)
butter
1/4 cup (divided, melted)
sugar
1 tablespoon (granulated)
salt
1 teaspoon (table salt)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the yellow squash and cutting it into rounds. Roughly chop the onion.
2
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the squash and chopped onion. Boil for approximately 10 minutes or until tender.
3
Drain the squash and onion very thoroughly, ensuring to remove excess water, then mash them in a bowl until somewhat smooth.
4
Incorporate the black pepper, beaten eggs, melted butter (reserve half for topping), sugar, and salt into the mashed squash mixture, stirring until well combined.
5
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6
Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the casserole and sprinkle the cracker meal or breadcrumbs evenly across the surface.
7
For added flavor, consider sprinkling a hint of nutmeg over the casserole before baking.
8
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9
Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Southern Baked Yellow Squash Casserole?
It is a traditional Southern side dish made with yellow squash, sweet onions, and a buttery cracker topping, inspired by Aunt Fanny's restaurant.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe pays homage to Aunt Fanny's beloved restaurant located in Smyrna, Georgia.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 8 people.
What are the main ingredients for this casserole?
The main ingredients include 3 lbs of yellow squash, 1/2 cup of onion, cracker meal or breadcrumbs, eggs, butter, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Can I use breadcrumbs instead of cracker meal?
Yes, you can use either cracker meal or breadcrumbs for the crispy topping.
Do I need to peel the yellow squash?
No, the instructions specify to wash and cut the squash into rounds without mentioning peeling.
How long should I boil the squash and onion?
Boil the squash and onion in a large pot for approximately 10 minutes or until they are tender.
Is it important to drain the water after boiling?
Yes, you should drain the squash and onion very thoroughly to ensure the casserole is not watery.
How smooth should the mashed squash be?
The mixture should be mashed in a bowl until it is somewhat smooth before adding other ingredients.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 beaten eggs to help bind the ingredients together.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F for baking this casserole.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole for approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly.
Can I add extra spice to the recipe?
Yes, you can consider sprinkling a hint of nutmeg over the casserole before baking for added flavor.
How much butter is used in the mixture?
A total of 1/4 cup of melted butter is used, with half incorporated into the mix and half drizzled on top.
Is there sugar in this savory casserole?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar to balance the flavors.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe suggests using a sweet onion, roughly chopped, for the best flavor profile.
Does the recipe require a specific amount of salt?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of table salt to season the squash mixture.
What is the purpose of the cracker meal?
The cracker meal provides a crispy, golden layer on top of the creamy squash mixture.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, pour the squash mixture into a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
How should I prepare the yellow squash?
Wash the yellow squash and cut it into rounds before boiling.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the recipe instructions focus on immediate baking, you can prepare the mashed mixture in advance and bake it when ready.
Is this recipe considered a side dish?
Yes, it is categorized as a vegetable side dish that pairs well with any main course.
What is the texture of the finished casserole?
The texture is a combination of tender, mashed squash and a crispy, buttery topping.
Can I use black pepper for seasoning?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
Is this a traditional Southern recipe?
Yes, it is described as a classic Southern comfort food dish.
Should I let the casserole cool before serving?
Yes, letting it cool slightly allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Can I substitute zucchini for yellow squash?
While the flavor will change, zucchini can be used as a substitute for yellow squash in this style of casserole.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients listed for this yellow squash casserole.
What makes this dish feel like home-cooked comfort food?
The combination of tender vegetables, creamy butter, and a crispy topping creates a nostalgic, comforting meal experience.