If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel and found yourself swooning over their delectable side dishes, then get ready to bring a taste of that Southern comfort right into your own kitchen with the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe! If you’re a fan of hearty, homestyle cooking that’s bursting with flavor, then you’re in for a treat.
In this article, we’ll unravel the secrets behind this beloved dish, showcasing how simple ingredients like squash, onions, and cheese come together to create a mouthwatering casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to savor the comforting flavors of the South with every spoonful of this irresistible Cracker Barrel classic!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1- Bursting with Flavor- This Casserole is packed with a delicious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. From the savory notes of the spices to the creamy goodness of the Squash, each bite is a burst of pure deliciousness.
2- Comfort Food at its Best- If you’re a fan of comfort food, then this recipe is a must-try. The creamy texture and warm flavors make it the perfect dish to cozy up on a chilly evening or bring to a potluck with friends and family.
3- Easy to Make- This recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner cooks can whip up a mouthwatering casserole that will impress everyone at the table.
4- Versatile and Adaptable- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Whether you want to add some extra veggies, swap out ingredients, or adjust the spices, you can easily make it your own and create a dish that suits your taste preferences.
5- Crowd-Pleasing Dish- Whether hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your family, this Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Its comforting flavors and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of yellow Squash, sliced
- 1/2 cup of onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of crushed butter crackers (such as Ritz crackers)
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 2- Add the sliced yellow Squash and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté them until they are tender and slightly golden, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3- Once the Squash and onion are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything until well combined—season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5- Sprinkle the crushed butter crackers over the top of the Casserole. This will add a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
Step 6- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the Casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7- Once the Casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 8- Serve the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole warm as a side dish or as a main course with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.
Tips for Making Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe Perfect
Here are some helpful tips for making the best squash casserole.
1- Choose Fresh Squash- Choose fresh, firm yellow Squash for the best flavor and texture. Look for Squash that is free from blemishes or soft spots.
2- Slice the Squash Evenly- To ensure even cooking, try to slice the Squash into uniform thickness. This will help the Squash cook evenly and prevent some pieces from becoming too mushy while others remain undercooked.
3- Sauté the Squash and Onion- Sautéing the Squash and onion before baking helps enhance their flavors and remove excess moisture. This step adds a delicious caramelized flavor to the Casserole.
4- Don’t Overcook the Squash- Be careful not to overcook the Squash during the sautéing process. You want the Squash to be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Overcooking can result in mushy Squash in the final Casserole.
5- Customize the Seasonings- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavors even more. Experiment with different combinations to make the Casserole your own.
6- Add a Crunchy Topping- The crushed butter crackers sprinkled on the Casserole add a delightful crunch. For extra flavor, you can mix the crushed crackers with a bit of melted butter before spreading them over the Casserole.
7- Let it Rest- Allow the Casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to serve without falling apart.
8- Double the Recipe- If you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers, feel free to double the recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger baking dish.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole
1- Grilled Chicken- Serve the Casserole with juicy chicken breasts or thighs. The savory flavors of the chicken complement the creamy squash casserole perfectly.
2- Roasted Vegetables- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus, make a great side dish. Combining the roasted flavors and the creamy Casserole creates a well-rounded meal.
3- Green Salad- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing element to the meal. The crispness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the creamy Casserole.
4- Garlic Bread- Serve some warm, garlic-infused bread on the side. The garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and complements the flavors of the Casserole.
5- Steamed Rice or Quinoa- For a heartier meal, serve the Casserole with steamed rice or quinoa. The grains provide a nice base and help soak up the creamy sauce.
6- Cornbread- A classic Southern accompaniment, cornbread pairs well with the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole. The slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread complements the savory flavors of the Casserole.
7- Fresh Fruit- Add a touch of freshness to the meal by serving some fresh fruit on the side. Sliced watermelon, berries, or a fruit salad make for a light and refreshing addition.
How to Store Squash Casserole
If you want to store your Squash Casserole, follow these simple steps:
1- Let it Cool- Allow the Casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation from forming and keeps the Casserole from becoming soggy.
2- Portion and Transfer- If you have leftovers, divide the Casserole into individual pieces or transfer it to an airtight container. This makes it easier to reheat and prevents the entire Casserole from being exposed to air when you only need a portion.
3- Refrigerate- Place the covered container in the refrigerator. The Casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
4- Reheat- When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the Casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Then, cover the container with foil and heat it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it is heated through.
5- Freeze (Optional)- If you want to freeze the Casserole for longer storage, ensure it has cooled completely. Wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The Casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
6- Thaw and Reheat- When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen Casserole, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once melted, follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.
Nutrition Fact
Amount Per Serving
- Calorie- 241 kcal
- Cholesterol- 30mg
- Potassium- 466mg
- Trans Fat- 0.7g
- Saturated Fat- 7g
- Sodium- 441mg
- Total Fat- 15g
- Sugars- 5.6g
- Protein- 8.4g
- Vitamin A –14%
- Vitamin C- 45%
- Calcium- 21%
- Total Carbohydrate- 17g
- Dietary Fiber- 2.2g
FAQs
What is Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole?
Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole is a delicious and creamy dish made with sliced yellow Squash, onions, sour cream, cheese, and a crunchy topping.
Is Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Gluten-free?
No, Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole is not gluten-free as it typically contains butter crackers, which contain gluten.
Is Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Healthy?
The healthiness of Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole depends on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Still, it can be made healthier by using low-fat dairy options and reducing the amount of added fats and sodium.
How do I make Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole?
To make Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole, sauté sliced yellow Squash and onions, then mix them with sour cream, cheese, and seasonings. Top with crushed butter crackers and bake until golden and bubbly.
Can I customize the recipe?
Yes, You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices, adding vegetables, or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
How should I serve Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole?
Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It can also be enjoyed as a main course with crusty bread or steamed rice.
How do I store leftover Casserole?
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can freeze the Casserole for longer storage for 2-3 months.
How do I reheat the Casserole?
To reheat the Casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175 °C), let it come to room temperature, cover it with foil, and bake it for about 20-25 minutes or until heated. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Conclusion
The Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that will surely please. With its creamy texture, flavorful blend of ingredients, and simple preparation, this Casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned food enthusiast, this recipe is a must-try.