When it comes to comforting Southern dishes, the Cracker Barrel squash casserole recipe is a delightful favorite. This recipe captures a blend of creamy textures and rich flavors that can transform any meal into something special. The secret to this beloved casserole lies in the perfect balance of tender squash and a deliciously cheesy topping.
For those who appreciate the art of home cooking, this casserole is a heartwarming addition to any dinner table. Drawing inspiration from the popular Cracker Barrel dish, it combines layers of cooked squash with a rich cheese mixture and a buttery cracker topping. This makes it not only flavorful but also easy and fun to prepare.
Families often gather around the table to enjoy the warmth and nostalgia brought by this classic dish. Whether it’s served as a side for a family dinner or as a highlight at a potluck, the Cracker Barrel squash casserole is sure to bring smiles all around. This recipe truly embodies the coziness and simplicity that Southern cooking has to offer.
Why I Love Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe
Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole holds a special place in the heart of Southern comfort food. The recipe combines rich flavors that bring warmth and nostalgia. It perfectly captures the essence of an old-fashioned squash casserole, making it a beloved Southern classic.
One of the best things about this dish is its comforting flavors. The mix of fresh squash, cream cheese, and sour cream creates a creamy, savory experience. These flavors turn this dish into an ideal weeknight dinner option.
It’s also remarkably easy to make, requiring simple ingredients like squash and Ritz crackers. This ease of preparation makes it accessible for both beginner and experienced cooks. People love how they can enjoy a taste of Cracker Barrel at home without hassle.
As a delightful addition to any meal, this casserole pairs wonderfully with various foods. It adds a touch of Southern charm to any table. Its versatility makes it a great choice for both family dinners and gatherings with friends.
How To Make Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe With Step By Step Instruction
Cracker Barrel’s Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring yellow squash, cheese, and a crispy cracker topping. It is perfect for any dinner table and easy to make with the right ingredients and tools.
Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 ½ pounds of yellow squash: Cut into ¼-inch slices for even cooking.
- 1 cup of chopped onion: Provides a savory base.
- 1 cup of sour cream: Adds creaminess to the mixture.
- 1 cup of cheddar cheese: Shredded for melting goodness.
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese: Delivers a rich, nutty flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1½ cups of crushed buttery crackers: For a crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: Melted for drizzling over the casserole.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste.
Instruments
Gather these tools to ensure smooth preparation:
- Large pot: For boiling the squash slices until tender.
- Mixing bowls: To combine various ingredients like squash and cheese mixtures.
- Frying pan: For sautéing onions and melting cheese.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for baking the casserole evenly.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F for baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensuring the right quantities of each ingredient.
Step By Step Instruction For Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the squash slices and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté and Mix
In a frying pan, sauté onions until they’re soft. In a mixing bowl, combine the onions with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Add the cooked squash, eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well-mixed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Grease the baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the squash mixture into it. In another bowl, mix melted butter with crushed crackers. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the squash mixture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Ingredient Substitute
Swapping out ingredients in the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole can give the dish a new twist or make it suit dietary preferences.
For a lighter version, Greek yogurt works as a great alternative to sour cream and cream cheese. This change can reduce fat while keeping the creamy taste.
To replace Ritz crackers in the topping, buttery round crackers or crumbled crackers can be used. These bring a similar crunch without altering the texture.
Zucchini or butternut squash are excellent substitutes for yellow squash. These options add different flavors but still maintain the casserole’s essence.
Olive oil can replace mayonnaise for fewer calories. It blends well in the recipe, especially when mixed with garlic powder for an added depth of flavor.
Adding ingredients like bacon or jalapeños introduces a spicy twist.
For those seeking a vegan-friendly dish, opt for a non-dairy cream cheese along with plant-based heavy cream instead of traditional dairy products.
These substitutes allow the dish to stay delicious and adaptable.
What To Serve With Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe
Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole is a cozy dish that fits perfectly on any table. It’s versatile and pairs well with many side dishes, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
For a balanced meal, serving it with a green salad is a great choice. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
Mashed potatoes are another comforting option. Their creamy texture goes well with the soft squash, providing a satisfying contrast.
Garlic bread can add a savory, crispy element. Its hints of garlic and butter enhance the casserole’s comforting taste. Additionally, roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts can bring color and nutrition to the meal.
For a healthier twist, quinoa salad is a great choice. It offers a nutty flavor and a different texture that pairs well with the casserole.
If you want something easy and quick, try garlic green beans. They are simple to prepare and add a fresh, crunchiness to the plate.
For those hosting larger gatherings or family dinners, setting up a variety of side dishes offers guests a chance to mix and match flavors to their liking.
This approach ensures everyone finds something they enjoy while giving the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole the spotlight it deserves.
How To Store Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole
The Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored properly to maintain flavor and texture.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For freezing, place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container. This method works if you plan to store it for more than a few days. It’s recommended to enjoy frozen casseroles within 1-2 months for the best taste.
Reheating is easy but should be done carefully to avoid drying out. In the oven, reheat at 350°F until hot. For microwave reheating, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
One common mistake when storing is forgetting to cool the casserole completely before placing it in the fridge or freezer. This can cause condensation, affecting texture and taste.
By ensuring proper cooling and covering, the casserole will remain tasty and enjoyable for the next meal.
Is Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe Healthy
The Cracker Barrel squash casserole is a comfort dish that boasts a creamy texture. It is often associated with home-style cooking. Made with ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, it creates a rich and creamy flavor, appealing to many taste buds.
A key component in this dish is the squash itself, which provides important nutrients like Vitamin A. This is beneficial for vision and immune function. Including fresh squash contributes to the healthiness of the casserole despite its indulgent ingredients.
Ingredients such as the buttery Ritz cracker topping and cheese can add extra calories and fat. It’s important for those mindful of their dietary intake to consider portion sizes when enjoying this dish. Moderation can help enjoy its flavors without compromising dietary goals.
Nutrition Fact
When looking at the nutritional facts of the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole, there are a few things to note:
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 210-468 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g – 49g
- Saturated Fat: 7g – 30g
- Trans Fat: 0g – 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 30mg – 153mg
- Sodium: 70mg – 441mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.3g
- Sugars: 5.6g – 5.7g
- Protein: 7g
- Potassium: 466mg
Understanding the nutrition can help one make informed decisions about the dish’s place in their diet. Whether indulging during a holiday or enjoying it as a comforting meal, these details offer a clear insight into what this tasty dish has to offer.
Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Frying pan
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 ½ lbs yellow squash sliced ¼ inch
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Boil squash slices until tender (5 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté onions until soft. Mix with sour cream, cheeses, cooked squash, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Grease baking dish and pour in the squash mixture.
- Combine crushed crackers with melted butter. Spread evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Calories: 210–468
- Total Fat: 14–49g
- Saturated Fat: 7–30g
- Cholesterol: 30–153mg
- Sodium: 70–441mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.3g
- Protein: 7g
