Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a comforting Southern classic, this Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe is the perfect dish to try. Made with tender summer squash, buttery breadcrumbs, creamy cheese, and a touch of Southern charm, this casserole is the definition of comfort food.

What makes it so special is how it balances creamy richness with the natural sweetness of squash. This recipe has the old-fashioned Southern feel we all love, but with little touches-like Parmesan and panko crumbs-that make it shine even more.

Whether you’re preparing it for Sunday dinner, a potluck, or a cozy family gathering, this dish brings people together around the table. It’s simple, hearty, and just the right amount of indulgent.

My Personal Experience With This Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe

When I first tried making this Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole, I wasn’t expecting just how creamy and flavorful it would turn out. I thought it would be a humble squash dish, but it quickly became one of the most requested sides in my kitchen.

The aroma of onions sizzling with fresh squash instantly takes me back to family gatherings in the South. There’s something so warm and inviting about that moment when the casserole comes bubbling out of the oven with a golden-brown topping.

For me, the highlight is the creamy filling paired with that crispy breadcrumb topping. Every bite feels like a hug from home, reminding me why Southern casseroles have always been the heart of comfort food.

Ingredients Required for Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe

Gather all the following ingredients, before you start making this Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole

• 2 lbs summer yellow squash (sliced thin)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter (plus extra for breadcrumbs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp roasted garlic seasoning
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 egg (optional)
• 1 medium carrot, grated (optional, for color)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Italian blend, or your favorite)
• ½ sleeve saltine crackers, crushed
• ½ cup sour cream
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Kitchen Utensils Required

1. Large skillet
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Strainer/colander & bowl
4. Mixing bowls
5. Grater
6. Baking dish (lightly greased)
7. Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Preparation & Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Copycat Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe

Just follow this simple step by step guideline to make your homemade version of Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole in a delicious way.

1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt, then stir in the thinly sliced summer squash. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the squash softens and begins releasing moisture. Sprinkle in roasted garlic seasoning for added flavor.

2. Drain the Squash
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a colander placed over a bowl. Let them drain for several minutes, pressing lightly with a spoon to remove excess liquid. This step ensures your casserole turns out creamy, not watery.

3. Prepare the Topping
In the same skillet, melt a bit more butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, stirring until golden and coated. Set aside to use later as the crunchy topping.

4. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the drained squash and onions with sour cream, shredded cheese, crushed saltines, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and the optional egg and grated carrot. Stir until all ingredients are well blended into a creamy mixture.

5. Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a baking dish and pour in the squash mixture. Spread it evenly with a spatula, then sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb topping generously across the surface.

6. Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes before serving warm.

Delicious Ways to Customize and Serve This Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole

Here are some Variations and Customizations ideas you can try to enjoy this Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole deliciously

1. With Fried Chicken
Nothing says Southern comfort like crispy fried chicken alongside a creamy squash casserole. The crunch of the chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy interior of the casserole.

2. Next to Grilled Pork Chops
We’ve often made this casserole when grilling pork chops. The smoky flavor of the meat complements the rich, buttery taste of the squash casserole so well that it feels like they were meant to be on the same plate.

3. As a Holiday Side Dish
During Thanksgiving or Christmas, this casserole shines just as brightly as stuffing or mashed potatoes. We’ve had guests go back for seconds-and sometimes thirds-because it brings a homemade Southern warmth to the holiday table.

4. Paired with Baked Ham
The sweetness of a glazed ham and the creaminess of the squash casserole balance each other out perfectly. It’s a pairing we keep coming back to whenever there’s a family get-together.

5. With Fresh Garden Vegetables
When the summer garden is full of green beans, okra, or sliced tomatoes, this casserole makes the perfect centerpiece. It turns a simple veggie spread into a hearty, satisfying meal.

6. Alongside Roast Beef
We once served it with a Sunday roast, and it became the star of the meal. The casserole’s creamy texture balances the savory richness of roast beef, making it a fantastic duo.

7. At a Potluck Gathering
This casserole travels well, and every time we’ve taken it to a potluck, the dish has been scraped clean before the evening was over. It pairs easily with anything from barbecue to casseroles from other families.

8. Topped with Fresh Herbs
Sometimes, after baking, we sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top. It adds a pop of freshness that pairs beautifully with lighter main dishes like grilled chicken or fish.

9. Served with Cornbread
Southern meals feel incomplete without cornbread, and when we serve cornbread next to this casserole, it’s a flavor combination that feels like home. Add a little honey butter, and you’re set.

10. As a Main Dish with a Salad
We’ve had evenings when this casserole itself was the star of dinner. Pair it with a fresh garden salad and a glass of sweet tea, and you’ve got a satisfying, fuss-free meal.

Some Notable Tips and Tricks on This Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe

Here are some tips and tricks you should follow when trying this recipe.

1. Wash your squash well. Squash grows in dirt, so give it a good rinse before you cut it.

2. Cut it thin. Thin slices cook faster and make the casserole nice and soft.

3. Cook out the water. Squash has lots of water. Cooking it first keeps your casserole from being soggy.

4. Drain it. After cooking, let the squash sit in a strainer so more water drips out.

5. Add cheese you love. Cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese works. Use what makes you smile.

6. Don’t skip the crackers. Crushed saltines make the casserole creamy and soak up extra water.

7. Mix well. Stir everything together so each bite has squash, cheese, and cream.

8. Make it crunchy. Add buttery breadcrumbs or crackers on top for a golden crust.

9. Let it cool. Wait a few minutes after baking-it will be very hot like lava!

10. Try new twists. You can add carrots for color or even zucchini for fun.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Properly?

If you have any leftover (hopefully you don’t have) you can process them properly as follows,

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 325°F for 10–12 minutes or warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs on this Copycat Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe

When you give this Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe a try, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry-we’ve rounded up answers to the most common ones to help you out.

1. What is squash casserole?

Squash casserole is a classic Southern comfort food made with tender yellow squash, onions, cheese, crackers or breadcrumbs, and a creamy base. It’s baked until golden brown on top, making it both creamy and crunchy. In our home, it’s one of those dishes that always shows up at Sunday dinners and potlucks.

2. How do you make Brenda Grantts squash casserole?

Brenda Grantts version is very similar-she uses yellow squash, onion, sour cream, and Ritz crackers as the topping. From my experience, Brenda Gantts casserole feels a little more rustic and homestyle, often using saltines or panko for crunch. Both versions are delicious, but Brenda’s recipe keeps that true Alabama charm.

3. How do you keep squash casserole from getting watery?

The key is to sauté the squash first and then drain it really well. I always use a colander and press out as much liquid as possible. Adding crushed saltines to the filling also helps soak up extra moisture, leaving the casserole creamy instead of runny.

4. What goes well with squash casserole?

This dish pairs beautifully with Southern classics like fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or roasted turkey. At our table, I often serve it with cornbread and green beans for a full Southern-style spread. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but it shines best as a side.

5. Can you make squash casserole ahead of time?

Yes! I’ve prepped mine a day ahead many times. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, add the breadcrumb topping and bake fresh so it stays crisp.

6. What type of squash works best?

Yellow summer squash is the traditional choice. However, I’ve also used zucchini or even a mix of both when that’s what I had on hand. It adds a nice color contrast and still turns out perfectly creamy.

7. Do you have to add eggs to squash casserole?

Not necessarily. I’ve made it both ways. The egg helps bind everything together, but if you skip it, the sour cream and cheese still create a rich, creamy texture. Brenda Gantt even says her mother-in-law made a delicious version without eggs.

8. Can you freeze squash casserole?

Personally, I don’t recommend freezing it because the texture changes. Squash holds a lot of water, and after thawing, the casserole can turn mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.

9. What kind of cheese is best for this casserole?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but I’ve had great results with an Italian blend or even mozzarella. Brenda herself says, “there’s no wrong cheese,” and I completely agree. Use what you love or what’s in the fridge.

10. How long does leftover squash casserole last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers last about 3 days in the refrigerator. I like to reheat mine in the oven to bring back the crunchy topping-it makes it taste just as good as day one.

This Brenda Gantts Squash Alabama Casserole Recipe is creamy, crunchy, and packed with comforting flavors that never go out of style. It’s the perfect side dish to serve with roasted meats, at family gatherings, or as the star of a cozy weeknight dinner.

We’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Give it a try, then drop a comment below to share your thoughts and tips with us.

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