There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy squash casserole fresh from the oven. Whether you’re craving a Southern-style classic or looking for an easy casserole recipe to wow your guests, this dish delivers the perfect balance of creamy, savory goodness with a satisfying crunchy topping.
If you love comfort food that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is for you. It’s rich, flavorful, and effortlessly comes together, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Plus, with a few tweaks, you can customize it to suit different dietary preferences—without losing that irresistible homemade taste.
Ready to bring this family-favorite dish to life? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Squash Casserole
If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious side dish, this Southern-style squash casserole is a must-try! It’s packed with tender yellow squash, rich cheddar cheese, and a buttery, crunchy topping that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast, potluck, or weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight.
Key Benefits of This Recipe
✔️ Easy to Make – Simple steps with minimal prep time.
✔️ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Creamy, cheesy, and lightly seasoned for a comforting taste.
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – A go-to dish for family dinners, BBQs, or Thanksgiving spreads.
✔️ Customizable – Easily tweak the ingredients to make it gluten-free, low-carb, or vegetarian.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep in advance and bake when ready!
This cheesy squash casserole is more than just a side—it’s a warm, nostalgic dish that brings people together. Ready to make it? Let’s dive in! 🚀
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into making this creamy, cheesy squash casserole, let’s gather the essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of rich flavors and irresistible textures.
Main Ingredients:
- Yellow squash (4 cups, sliced) – The star of the dish! Choose fresh, firm squash for the best flavor and texture.
- Onion (½ cup, finely chopped) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Butter (3 tablespoons) – Enhances richness and helps sauté the squash to perfection.
- Eggs (2, beaten) – Helps bind the casserole together, giving it structure.
- Milk (½ cup) – Creates a smooth, creamy consistency in the casserole.
- Cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded) – For that gooey, cheesy goodness! Feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
- Sour cream (½ cup) – Adds a tangy richness and extra creaminess.
For the Crunchy Topping:
- Ritz crackers (1 cup, crushed) – Creates a buttery, golden crust on top. Panko breadcrumbs work as a great alternative.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted) – Helps the topping crisp up beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated, optional) – Adds a nutty, salty kick to the crust.
Seasonings:
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the savory depth.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Brings out all the flavors.
- Paprika (¼ teaspoon, optional) – A touch of smokiness for added warmth.
💡 Pro Tip: Want to lighten things up? Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese without compromising flavor.
Now that you have everything ready, let’s start cooking! 🍽️🔥
How to Make Squash Casserole
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s put together this rich, cheesy, and comforting squash casserole step by step. The process is simple, and the results are absolutely worth it!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wash the yellow squash, trim the ends, and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds.
Step 2: Sauté the Squash and Onions
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced squash and chopped onions, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until the squash is tender and most of the moisture has evaporated.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
💡 Pro Tip: If the squash releases too much water, drain it using a colander and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps prevent a watery casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
- Stir in the cooked squash and onions, ensuring everything is well coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
🎉 Enjoy! This cheesy squash casserole is now ready to be served! Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Now, let’s explore some fun variations and expert tips to customize this dish even further! ⬇️
Pro Tips and Variations
This cheesy squash casserole is already a crowd-pleaser, but with a few tweaks, you can make it even better! Whether you want to add a little extra crunch, lighten it up, or experiment with flavors, these expert tips will help you customize this dish to your taste.
Pro Tips for the Best Squash Casserole
✅ Prevent a Watery Casserole – Squash has a high water content, which can make your dish soggy. After sautéing, drain excess liquid and pat the squash dry with paper towels before mixing it into the casserole.
✅ Get a Crispier Topping – For an ultra-crispy crust, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
✅ Enhance the Flavor – Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to give the casserole a slight kick.
✅ Cheese Matters! – While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can mix in Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a more complex flavor.
✅ Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then pop it in the oven.
Tasty Variations to Try
✨ Gluten-Free Version – Swap Ritz crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour crackers for the same crunch without the gluten.
✨ Low-Carb Option – Skip the cracker topping and sprinkle crushed pork rinds or a blend of Parmesan and almond flour instead.
✨ Add Protein – Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or diced ham to make it a hearty main dish.
✨ Vegan-Friendly Twist – Replace cheese with dairy-free alternatives, eggs with flax eggs, and sour cream with cashew cream for a delicious plant-based version.
✨ Extra Veggie Goodness – Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add more texture.
With these simple yet effective modifications, you can tailor this Southern-style squash casserole to fit your dietary preferences and flavor cravings while keeping it irresistibly delicious!
Up next: How to serve and pair this comforting dish for the best experience! ⬇️
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Squash Casserole
This cheesy squash casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or a weeknight comfort meal, these pairing ideas will help you create a well-balanced, satisfying spread.
Best Main Dishes to Serve with Squash Casserole
🍗 Grilled or Baked Chicken – A light, herby grilled chicken breast or a juicy roasted chicken balances out the rich, cheesy flavors of the casserole.
🥩 Steak or Roast Beef – The buttery, tender texture of a ribeye steak, prime rib, or pot roast complements the creamy casserole perfectly.
🐟 Baked or Pan-Seared Fish – A mild, flaky fish like salmon, tilapia, or cod adds a fresh contrast to the dish.
🌱 Vegetarian Options – Serve it alongside stuffed bell peppers, a hearty lentil loaf, or roasted chickpeas for a delicious meat-free meal.
Perfect Side Dishes to Round Out the Meal
🥗 Fresh Green Salad – A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the casserole.
🌽 Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – Try roasted Brussels sprouts, honey-glazed carrots, or garlic butter green beans for extra color and nutrition.
🥖 Warm Bread or Dinner Rolls – A side of fluffy cornbread, garlic knots, or buttermilk biscuits is perfect for soaking up every last bite of the creamy casserole.
Occasions Perfect for Squash Casserole
🎉 Holiday Gatherings – This dish is a classic Thanksgiving or Christmas side, adding warmth and nostalgia to any festive meal.
👨👩👧👦 Family Dinners – Quick, easy, and satisfying—perfect for a weeknight comfort meal everyone will love.
🍽 Potlucks & BBQs – A great make-ahead dish that’s easy to transport and always a hit at summer cookouts or church dinners.
No matter how you serve it, this Southern-style squash casserole will be the highlight of the table. Now, let’s wrap things up with a quick recap and some common questions! ⬇️
Conclusion: A Casserole Worth Making Again and Again
This cheesy squash casserole isn’t just another side dish—it’s a Southern comfort food classic that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, family dinner, or potluck gathering, its rich, creamy texture and crispy topping are guaranteed to impress.
What makes this dish so special is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients, lighten it up, or add extra flavors to suit your taste. Plus, with its make-ahead convenience, it’s a time-saver when planning meals for busy weeks or festive occasions.
So, why not give this easy squash casserole recipe a try? Once you take that first cheesy, buttery bite, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved family favorite.
💬 Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out. 😊👇
Squash Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Yellow squash 4 cups, sliced – The star of the dish! Choose fresh, firm squash for the best flavor and texture.
- Onion ½ cup, finely chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Butter 3 tablespoons – Enhances richness and helps sauté the squash to perfection.
- Eggs 2, beaten – Helps bind the casserole together, giving it structure.
- Milk ½ cup – Creates a smooth, creamy consistency in the casserole.
- Cheddar cheese 1 ½ cups, shredded – For that gooey, cheesy goodness! Feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
- Sour cream ½ cup – Adds a tangy richness and extra creaminess.
For the Crunchy Topping:
- Ritz crackers 1 cup, crushed – Creates a buttery, golden crust on top. Panko breadcrumbs work as a great alternative.
- Butter 2 tablespoons, melted – Helps the topping crisp up beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese ¼ cup, grated, optional – Adds a nutty, salty kick to the crust.
Seasonings:
- Garlic powder ½ teaspoon – Enhances the savory depth.
- Salt & black pepper to taste – Brings out all the flavors.
- Paprika ¼ teaspoon, optional – A touch of smokiness for added warmth.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wash the yellow squash, trim the ends, and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds.
Step 2: Sauté the Squash and Onions
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced squash and chopped onions, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until the squash is tender and most of the moisture has evaporated.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- 💡 Pro Tip: If the squash releases too much water, drain it using a colander and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps prevent a watery casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
- Stir in the cooked squash and onions, ensuring everything is well coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 10g
FAQs: Your Squash Casserole Questions Answered
Got questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common questions and expert answers to help you make the perfect cheesy squash casserole every time.
1. How do I keep my squash casserole from getting watery?
Squash naturally contains a lot of moisture, which can make the casserole soggy. To prevent this:
✔ Sauté the squash first to release excess liquid.
✔ Drain it well using a colander and pat dry with paper towels.
✔ Avoid overloading with liquid ingredients like too much milk or sour cream.
2. Can I make squash casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead dish:
✔ Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
✔ When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then add the topping and bake as directed.
3. Can I freeze squash casserole?
Yes, but with some adjustments:
✔ Freeze before baking for the best texture. Assemble the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
✔ When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the cracker topping, and bake as usual.
❌ Avoid freezing after baking—the squash can become mushy when reheated.
4. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for the topping?
If you need a gluten-free or alternative topping, try:
✔ Panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
✔ Crushed cornflakes for a slightly sweet crunch.
✔ Almond flour mixed with Parmesan for a low-carb option.
5. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! The eggs help bind the casserole, but you can replace them with:
✔ 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.
✔ ¼ cup Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
✔ A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for a plant-based alternative.
6. How can I make this casserole healthier?
For a lighter version without losing flavor:
✔ Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
✔ Swap low-fat cheese for full-fat varieties.
✔ Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour for a healthier topping.
Have another question? Drop it in the comments below, and I’ll be happy to help! 😊👇