Squash Casserole Recipe

Few dishes capture the essence of Southern comfort food like a squash casserole. Rich, creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden brown, this casserole has been a staple at family gatherings, church potlucks, and holiday tables for generations. Using tender yellow squash as the star ingredient, this dish transforms simple vegetables into a hearty and indulgent side that pairs well with almost any main course.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of squash casserole, why it’s such a beloved comfort food, variations that suit different diets, and a step-by-step recipe you can try at home.

What is Squash Casserole?

Squash casserole is a baked dish that combines cooked squash, sautéed onions, eggs, cheese, milk or cream, and a crispy topping of either breadcrumbs or buttery crackers. The mixture is layered into a casserole dish, baked until bubbly, and served hot.

The recipe traces its roots to Southern kitchens, where cooks made use of seasonal yellow squash during summer harvests. Over time, the dish evolved to include more indulgent elements like cheddar cheese, cream, and Ritz cracker toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Comforting & Creamy: Rich flavors of cheese and cream complement the natural sweetness of squash.
• Perfect Side Dish: Works for weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, or holiday feasts.
• Customizable: Can be made gluten-free, low-carb, or even vegan with the right substitutions.
• Crowd Pleaser: Even picky eaters who don’t usually like vegetables enjoy squash casserole.

Popular Variations of Squash Casserole

1. Classic Southern Squash Casserole – With Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and cream.
2. Low-Carb Squash Casserole – Uses almond flour and parmesan as topping.
3. Vegan Squash Casserole – Dairy-free cheese and cashew cream for a plant-based alternative.
4. Healthy Summer Squash Casserole – Lightened up with Greek yogurt instead of cream.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Squash Casserole

Ingredients

• 6 medium yellow squash, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Squash & Onions: In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté squash with onions until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain excess liquid.
3. Mix Filling: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, then add sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, and cheddar cheese. Stir in cooked squash and onions. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Prepare Topping: Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
5. Assemble Casserole: Pour squash mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle cracker topping evenly.
6. Bake: Cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.

Tips for the Best Squash Casserole

• Drain Excess Water: Squash releases a lot of moisture. Drain or press before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.
• Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
• Add Extra Flavor: Mix in garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or even bacon crumbles for a flavor boost.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g

Squash Casserole

A classic Southern comfort dish made with tender yellow squash, onions, creamy cheese, and buttery Ritz cracker topping baked to perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 people

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 medium yellow squash sliced
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 0.5 cup milk
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed
• 2 tbsp butter melted for topping
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 9×13 baking dish

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté squash with onions until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain excess liquid.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, then stir in sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Fold in cooked squash and onions. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until topping is golden brown and casserole is bubbly.

Notes

Make ahead by assembling the casserole up to a day early. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Conclusion

The squash casserole recipe proves that humble ingredients can become a luxurious comfort food. Whether you stick to the traditional Southern-style version or adapt it to fit your diet, this dish delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, squash casserole is the side dish you’ll come back to again and again.