Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy yellow squash casserole fresh out of the oven. With its golden, crispy topping and rich, creamy interior, this dish is a must-have at any family gathering, potluck, or weeknight dinner. It's a fantastic way to use up an abundance of fresh squash and turn it into something truly irresistible.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a summer trip to my grandmother's house, where her garden overflowed with bright yellow squash. She whipped up this simple yet delicious casserole, and from that moment on, it became a staple in my own kitchen. Whether you're looking for a new way to enjoy squash or need a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why You'll Love This Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this easy yellow squash casserole! It’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and has just the right balance of creamy and crunchy textures.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time. Perfect for busy nights when you need something comforting yet effortless.

This casserole is also budget-friendly. Yellow squash is affordable and easy to find, especially in the summer months. You can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, it’s super versatile. Whether you prefer a cheesy version, a more traditional cracker-topped casserole, or a healthier spin with Greek yogurt, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your taste.

Finally, it's the perfect side dish. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork, or a holiday ham, this casserole complements just about any main course beautifully.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this yellow squash casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish shine:

Yellow squash: The star of the dish! Look for fresh, firm squash with vibrant yellow skin. You’ll need about 4-5 medium squash, thinly sliced, to create the perfect casserole base.

Onion: A finely chopped sweet onion adds a subtle depth of flavor and enhances the natural sweetness of the squash as it cooks.

Butter: A bit of butter helps sauté the squash and onion, bringing out their rich, savory flavors. It also adds a creamy texture to the filling.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice, giving the casserole a rich, gooey texture. If you like a little extra kick, try mixing in some pepper jack cheese!

Crackers: Buttery crackers like Ritz provide the perfect crunchy topping. Crushed and mixed with melted butter, they form a golden-brown crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

If you have a casserole dish and a sauté pan, you're all set to make this delicious dish. No special equipment is needed!

How To Make This Yellow Squash Casserole

Making this yellow squash casserole is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven is warming up, prepare your squash. Slice them into thin rounds and dice the onion finely.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the squash and onions. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and most of the moisture has evaporated. This step is crucial to prevent a watery casserole.

Once the squash mixture is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, and 1 beaten egg to create a rich, creamy filling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this topping generously over the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

This yellow squash casserole stores well, making it a great make-ahead dish. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

You can also freeze this casserole for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this yellow squash casserole is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to switch it up:

For a healthier version, swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use whole-wheat crackers instead of Ritz. You'll still get the same creamy texture with a bit more protein and fiber.

Love extra cheesy goodness? Try adding Parmesan or Monterey Jack to the mix. A blend of cheeses adds even more depth of flavor.

If you're looking for a low-carb option, replace the crackers with crushed pork rinds or a sprinkle of almond flour mixed with Parmesan for a keto-friendly topping.

For a bit of a kick, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. The added spice pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, creamy base.

No matter how you customize it, this yellow squash casserole is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and make it your own!

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