Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of a warm, cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole fresh from the oven. With its creamy texture, crispy topping, and rich buttery flavor, this dish is a classic Southern favorite that's perfect for any occasion.

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I first made this casserole as a way to use up an abundance of garden-fresh squash, and it quickly became a family staple. Whether you're serving it as a side dish for a holiday meal or enjoying it as a simple weeknight dinner, this easy recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy yellow squash. This casserole is packed with comforting flavors and an irresistible golden-brown crust.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.

It’s also a fantastic way to use up extra squash. If you’ve ever found yourself with more yellow squash than you know what to do with, this casserole is the perfect solution.

The buttery cracker topping adds the perfect crunch. The combination of buttery crackers and melted cheese creates a crisp, golden layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy squash filling.

Best of all, this dish is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak, making it an excellent addition to any meal.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Yellow Squash Casserole is in its simple ingredients, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Yellow squash is the star of the dish. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with the rich cheese and buttery crackers. Be sure to slice it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Onions add a wonderful depth of flavor. Sautéing them before mixing them into the casserole brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

Cheddar cheese gives the casserole its deliciously gooey, cheesy texture. A sharp cheddar works best, as it adds a nice tangy contrast to the mild squash.

Sour cream and mayonnaise create the creamy, luscious texture that makes this casserole so irresistible. They help bind everything together while adding a slight tang that complements the cheese.

For the topping, buttery crackers (like Ritz) are crushed and mixed with melted butter to create that irresistible crispy crust. This adds the perfect crunch to contrast the soft filling.

How To Make This Yellow Squash Casserole

Making this Yellow Squash Casserole is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these easy steps for the perfect dish.

Start by prepping the squash. Slice it into even rounds, then sauté it in a large skillet with a bit of butter until it becomes tender. This step removes excess moisture and enhances the squash’s natural sweetness.

Next, sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent. Cooking them separately before mixing ensures they blend seamlessly into the casserole, adding a depth of flavor.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring each bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, prepare the buttery cracker topping by crushing crackers and mixing them with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The filling should be bubbling, and the aroma will be absolutely irresistible!

Storage Options

This Yellow Squash Casserole stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dish.

To store leftovers, cover the casserole dish with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

For reheating, simply warm individual servings in the microwave, or place the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

If you're looking for a healthier option, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It keeps the dish creamy while adding a protein boost.

For extra richness, add cooked bacon crumbles to the filling. The smoky, salty flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy squash and cheese.

Want a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free crackers or substitute the topping with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative.

If you prefer a bit of spice, mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the casserole a little kick.

No cheddar on hand? Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.

No matter how you customize it, this Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is bound to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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