Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's something about a warm, cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole that feels like home. With its creamy texture, golden-brown crust, and comforting flavors, this dish is a staple at family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. The blend of tender squash, buttery cracker topping, and melty cheese makes every bite irresistible.

I first made this recipe when I had an abundance of summer squash from my garden. Not wanting any to go to waste, I experimented with different ways to prepare it. This casserole quickly became my favorite, offering a delicious and effortless way to enjoy fresh squash all season long.

Why You'll Love This Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to side dish! This Yellow Squash Casserole is packed with flavor and couldn't be easier to make.

First off, it's incredibly easy and quick to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have this dish in the oven in no time. Perfect for busy nights when you need something satisfying without the hassle.

It's also budget-friendly. Squash is often affordable, especially in the summer months, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. You can serve a hearty, homemade dish without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, it's a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're bringing it to a potluck, serving it at Thanksgiving, or making it for Sunday dinner, this casserole is always a hit. Even picky eaters find themselves coming back for seconds!

Plus, it's versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes, adding different cheeses, proteins, or seasonings to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Yellow Squash Casserole lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish's deliciously creamy and flavorful profile.

Yellow squash is, of course, the star of the show. You’ll need about four medium-sized squash, sliced thinly so they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy. If your squash has large seeds, consider removing them for the best texture.

Onions add a touch of sweetness and depth to the casserole. Sautéing them before baking ensures they blend seamlessly into the dish without being overpowering.

Cheese brings richness and gooey goodness to the casserole. I recommend using sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but feel free to mix in Parmesan or Monterey Jack for variety.

Crushed buttery crackers, like Ritz, create the perfect crunchy topping. They add a subtle, salty contrast to the creamy squash filling, making every bite even more satisfying.

Eggs and sour cream work together to create the creamy base that holds everything together. The eggs help firm up the casserole while the sour cream adds tangy richness.

You’ll also need some butter, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavors. A little goes a long way in making this dish truly delicious.

How To Make This Yellow Squash Casserole

Making this casserole is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by prepping the squash and onions. Slice the squash into thin rounds and dice the onions. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté the squash and onions together until they become tender. This step ensures they soften nicely and develop flavor before baking.

Next, prepare the creamy filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onions with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and beaten eggs. Stir everything together until well coated. The cheese will begin to melt slightly, creating a luscious mixture.

Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Transfer the squash mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of crushed buttery crackers over the top, followed by a drizzle of melted butter to help achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.

Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden. You’ll know it’s done when you see bubbly edges and a lightly set center.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The flavors will meld together beautifully, and the texture will be just right.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them properly to enjoy later.

For short-term storage, keep the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

To freeze, prepare the casserole as usual but stop before baking. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Yellow Squash Casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

If you love a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the squash mixture before baking.

For a protein boost, mix in some cooked bacon, crumbled sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken. This turns the casserole into a heartier main dish.

Want a healthier version? Swap out the buttery crackers for panko breadcrumbs and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You’ll still get great texture and flavor with a lighter touch.

Experiment with different cheeses. Try swapping cheddar for smoked Gouda, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a bolder taste.

No yellow squash? Zucchini works just as well! You can even do a mix of both for added variety.

However you customize it, this Yellow Squash Casserole is guaranteed to be a comforting and delicious addition to your table. Try it today and see why it’s a family favorite!

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