Squash Casserole has a way of making any meal feel special, and I’ve loved it since I was a kid. The aroma of sautéed onions and tender squash mingling with melted cheese is pure comfort food magic. This version is my go-to because it strikes that perfect balance between rich and fresh, plus it’s genuinely an easy squash casserole to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. I remember my aunt making this homemade squash casserole for every family gathering, and the golden, buttery cracker topping was always the first thing to disappear. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Squash Casserole

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a simple squash bake.
The texture is divine – tender squash with a delightful crunchy topping.
It’s the definition of comfort food, bringing warmth to any table.
You get that amazing, creamy squash casserole flavor everyone raves about.
It’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs with everything.
This is hands-down the best squash casserole you’ll ever try!
The cheesy goodness makes it irresistible.

Ingredients for Homemade Squash Casserole

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious squash casserole:

2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing the veggies
4 cups sliced yellow squash – about 1.5 lbs, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, chopped – adds a sweet aromatic base
2 large eggs – these bind everything together
1 cup grated cheddar cheese – for that irresistible cheesy squash casserole flavor
1 cup milk – contributes to the creamy texture
2 tablespoons butter, melted – for the topping
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – a little kick!
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – freshly ground is best
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed – this makes the perfect buttery, crunchy topping for our squash casserole with breadcrumbs!

How to Make Squash Casserole

Making this delicious squash casserole is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create this comforting side dish.

Step 1: Let’s get started! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add your 4 cups of sliced yellow squash and the 1 medium onion, chopped. Cook these vegetables until they are nice and tender, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: While the squash and onions are cooking, grab a large bowl. Whisk your 2 large eggs until they’re smooth. Then, add the 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese and the 1 cup of milk, whisking everything together until it’s well combined.
Step 4: Once the squash and onions are tender, carefully add them to the egg mixture in the bowl. Stir everything gently until it’s all nicely incorporated.
Step 5: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet you used for the vegetables. Pour this melted butter into the squash mixture. Stir in the 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat!), along with the 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. This is where you really start building the amazing flavor of this squash casserole.
Step 6: Pour the entire squash mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Smooth it out evenly.
Step 7: Now for that irresistible topping! Sprinkle the 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed, evenly over the surface of the squash mixture. This step is crucial for how to make squash casserole with that perfect crunchy layer.
Step 8: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cracker topping is a beautiful golden brown and the casserole itself is set and bubbly.
Step 9: Once it’s out of the oven, let this delightful squash casserole rest for about 3 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up perfectly.

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Pro Tips for the Best Squash Casserole

Elevating this classic dish from good to unforgettable is easy with a few tricks. Think of these as the secrets to making the perfect, simple squash bake that everyone will ask for.

Don’t skip draining the cooked squash and onions; excess moisture is the enemy of a good casserole.
For an extra crispy topping, mix the crushed crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling.
Using fresh yellow squash yields the best flavor, but frozen works if you drain it exceptionally well.
Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set up beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect Squash Casserole?

The real magic in a perfect southern squash casserole often comes down to managing moisture. Draining the cooked squash and onions thoroughly, and then adding that bit of butter to the cracker topping, ensures a creamy interior and a delightfully crisp crust. For more tips on managing ingredients, check out tips for a successful harvest.

Can I make Squash Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the cracker topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping just before baking, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cook time since it’s going in cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Squash Casserole?

The most common pitfall is a watery casserole. Make sure to drain your cooked squash and onions very well. To prevent a soggy topping, add the crushed crackers right before baking, and consider mixing them with a little melted butter for extra crispness. Understanding the role of ingredients like onions can also help.

Best Ways to Serve Squash Casserole

This creamy, cheesy delight truly shines as a versatile squash casserole side dish. It’s the perfect complement to hearty roasted meats like pork loin or a classic pot roast, bringing a touch of down-home goodness to your plate. Imagine it alongside barbecue favorites – it’s a natural fit for pulled pork or ribs. For a true Southern feast, pair it with fried chicken or country ham. It also holds its own beautifully on a holiday table, nestled amongst other comforting dishes. If you’re looking for other great side dishes, consider our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or Roasted Carrot Soup.

Nutrition Facts for Squash Casserole

Here are the estimated nutritional details for this delicious squash casserole, per serving:

Calories: 448 kcal
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Protein: 11g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 653mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of cheese and crackers.

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How to Store and Reheat Squash Casserole

Once your delicious baked squash casserole has cooled slightly, it’s time to think about storing any leftovers. Allow the casserole to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring it to airtight containers. In the refrigerator, this delightful dish will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy your squash casserole again, reheating is simple. For refrigerated leftovers, you can gently reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. Alternatively, you can reheat a frozen portion directly in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a longer period, covered, until warm. This method helps maintain the integrity of the topping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Squash Casserole

What is squash casserole?

At its heart, squash casserole is a comforting baked dish featuring tender, cooked squash mixed with a creamy, often cheesy, sauce. It’s typically topped with buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a delightful crunch. This classic vegetable casserole is a staple in many homes, especially in the South. For more information on classic dishes, you might find our post on Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil interesting.

Why is squash casserole popular?

This dish’s popularity stems from its incredible versatility and comforting nature. It’s a fantastic way to use up summer squash, and its mild, creamy flavor profile makes it a hit with both kids and adults. The addition of cheese often transforms it into a beloved cheesy squash casserole, making it a favorite side dish for holidays and family dinners alike. Learn more about the benefits of cherry tomatoes, another summer favorite.

Can I use different types of squash?

You absolutely can! While this recipe uses yellow squash, other varieties work wonderfully. Zucchini is a common substitute, and for a slightly different flavor and texture, butternut squash or acorn squash can also be used. Just be sure to cook them until tender and drain any excess moisture, like with yellow squash. For other vegetable ideas, consider barley.

What makes a squash casserole creamy?

The creaminess in a squash casserole typically comes from a combination of ingredients like milk, eggs, and often sour cream or mayonnaise, along with cheese. These ingredients create a luscious sauce that envelops the tender squash, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. It’s what elevates a simple baked squash into a truly decadent side dish. For a different creamy dish, try our Easy Avocado Toast.

Variations of Squash Casserole You Can Try

While this classic recipe is fantastic, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily adapt this dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a gluten-free take on this beloved summer squash casserole, simply swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crushed crackers or even toasted almond flour mixed with melted butter. If you’re short on oven time, try making this a yellow squash casserole in your air fryer! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, checking for crispness. For a decadent flavor boost, consider adding a mix of cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack along with the cheddar, or even a dollop of sour cream for an extra-creamy texture.

Amazing Squash Casserole: 1 Easy Recipe

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 53 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Squash Casserole recipe features tender squash and onions in a creamy, cheesy mixture, topped with buttery, crispy crushed crackers. It’s a simple, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons butter
4 cups sliced yellow squash
1 medium onion, chopped
2 large eggs
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter (for the topping)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the grated cheddar cheese and milk, whisking until combined.
Add the cooked squash and onions to the egg mixture and stir well.
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add this melted butter to the squash mixture. Stir in the cayenne pepper (if using), kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Pour the squash mixture into the prepared dish.
Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Let the squash casserole rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can use frozen squash, but drain and pat it dry thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
To avoid a runny casserole, ensure excess moisture is removed from the cooked squash and onions.
Other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be added; sauté and drain them first.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American