Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy squash casserole straight from the oven. The tender yellow squash melds with a creamy, savory sauce, topped with a golden, buttery cracker crust that adds the perfect crunch. Whether you're serving this as a holiday side dish or a simple weeknight dinner addition, it's guaranteed to be a hit at the table.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for ways to use up an overabundance of summer squash from my garden. What started as a simple experiment quickly became a family favorite. Now, no potluck or family gathering is complete without this easy and irresistible casserole!

Why You'll Love This Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this classic Southern favorite. It's creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this casserole ready for the oven in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

It's also budget-friendly. Yellow squash is an affordable vegetable, especially in the summer months when it's in peak season. A few pantry staples like butter, cheese, and crackers are all you need to bring this dish together.

Plus, it's a versatile dish that pairs well with just about anything. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or even a hearty vegetarian meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays an important role in making this dish irresistibly delicious.

Yellow squash is the star of this dish. Choose firm, bright yellow squash with smooth skin for the best flavor and texture. Sautéing the squash before baking helps remove excess moisture and enhances its natural sweetness.

Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, creamy richness that perfectly complements the mild squash. For the best melt and flavor, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Sour cream brings a luscious creaminess to the casserole while adding a slight tang that balances out the richness. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Eggs help bind the ingredients together, giving the casserole a custard-like texture that holds everything in place beautifully.

Buttery cracker crumbs (such as Ritz crackers) form a golden, crispy topping that adds a delightful crunch. If you prefer a different texture, panko breadcrumbs can be used as an alternative.

How To Make This Yellow Squash Casserole

Creating this easy yellow squash casserole is a breeze. Let me walk you through the steps to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish. While the oven heats up, slice the yellow squash into thin rounds. If your squash is particularly large, you may want to halve the rounds for more even cooking.

In a large skillet, melt a bit of butter over medium heat and sauté the squash with diced onions until softened. This step not only enhances the flavors but also prevents the casserole from becoming watery as it bakes.

Once the squash mixture is cooked, drain any excess liquid and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, and seasonings. Mix everything until well combined.

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Crush your buttery crackers and sprinkle them generously over the top, then drizzle with melted butter for that perfect golden crust.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is beautifully crisp. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this casserole stores wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy topping. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the topping soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to customize it based on your preferences and dietary needs.

For a healthier twist, swap out sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use whole wheat crackers for the topping. You’ll get all the creamy goodness with a little extra protein and fiber.

Want to add more depth of flavor? Try mixing in some caramelized onions or roasted garlic. These additions will enhance the dish with a rich, savory taste.

If you're looking for a low-carb version, replace the crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with parmesan cheese. This will give you the same crunchy texture without the extra carbs.

For a protein boost, add cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the mixture before baking. It transforms the casserole into a heartier dish that can stand alone as a main course.

No matter how you make it, this Yellow Squash Casserole is sure to be a favorite in your home. Give it a try and enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!

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