If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and always pleases a crowd, this Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. Filled with tender yellow squash, sharp cheddar, and topped with a perfectly crisp, buttery crust, this casserole warms your heart and your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight dinner or a side for a holiday feast, this recipe hits all the right notes in taste, texture, and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, yet each one plays an essential role in making this casserole just right. From the squash providing a fresh, mellow base to the crunchy cracker topping adding irresistible texture, every element contributes to the wonderful final dish.
- Yellow squash (4 cups, sliced): The star vegetable, offering tender sweetness and vibrant color.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds savory depth and a touch of bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Brings creamy, sharp flavor that melts beautifully.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Keeps the casserole moist and adds subtle tanginess.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Enhances creaminess and helps bind everything together.
- Egg (1, beaten): Provides structure and richness.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, aromatic note without overwhelming.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
- Crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs (1 cup): Creates a delightful crunchy topping that browns nicely.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Binds the topping and adds golden, buttery crispness.
How to Make Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9 inch baking dish or something similar. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes for easy serving later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Squash and Onions
Place the sliced squash and chopped onions into a large skillet over medium heat with a pinch of salt. Let them cook for 8 to 10 minutes until they become tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. This step brings out their natural sweetness and softens the vegetables perfectly.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked squash and onions with shredded cheddar, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well so every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly. This also helps the toppings lay flat and brown beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your casserole, creating a golden, crunchy layer once baked.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top has turned a lovely golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. This is the moment where flavors meld and aromas fill your kitchen.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps it set up so you can scoop out perfect portions that hold their shape.
How to Serve Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the casserole for a pop of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness that contrasts nicely with the creamy, cheesy base.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted chicken, or even glazed ham, making it a versatile side for many occasions. The creamy texture and hearty flavor make it a perfect foil for lighter proteins or fresh veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the casserole in individual ramekins to impress guests with personalized portions. You might also layer it with breadcrumbs and cheese in a clear baking dish for a pretty presentation that shows off its colorful layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long), cover the casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to mingle.
Freezing
You can freeze this Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe before baking. Prepare it as directed, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crisp again. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven maintains the texture best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash in this recipe?
Absolutely! Yellow squash works beautifully, but you can substitute zucchini or a mix of squash varieties to bring different flavors and textures while still keeping the dish delicious.
Is this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as written. However, if you want to make it vegan, you’d need to swap out the dairy ingredients and egg for plant-based alternatives.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of the Ritz crackers to keep the crunchy topping delightful without gluten.
How spicy is this casserole?
This casserole is mild and comforting in flavor, but you can add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños for a subtle kick if you prefer a little heat.
What’s the best way to slice the squash?
Slice your squash into uniform, thin rounds about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture in the finished casserole.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully satisfying about making this Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. With its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy elements, plus its simplicity, this casserole is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try soon; trust me, your family and friends will thank you!
Print
Deliciously Easy Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This deliciously easy squash casserole is a comforting, cheesy side dish perfect for warm family meals. Featuring tender sautéed yellow squash and onions mixed with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a buttery cracker topping, it bakes to golden perfection in just about 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 4–5 medium squash)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Dairy & Eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Seasonings & Toppings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch or a similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion with a pinch of salt for 8–10 minutes, until tender. Drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
- Prepare Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crispy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling, indicating it is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the cheddar cheese with reduced-fat or part-skim cheese.
- You can add breadcrumbs instead of crushed Ritz crackers for a less buttery topping.
- Make sure to drain the excess liquid after sautéing to prevent a watery casserole.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead, assembled, refrigerated, and baked before serving.
- Optional: Add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
