Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's something about a warm, cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole that feels like home. The tender squash, creamy sauce, and crispy topping create a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.

I first discovered this dish at a summer potluck, where a friend brought it as a side. One bite, and I was hooked! It quickly became a staple in my kitchen—easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and always a hit at family dinners.

Why You'll Love This Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation! This Yellow Squash Casserole is not just tasty but also incredibly simple to make.

First, it's quick and easy. With minimal prep and a short baking time, you can have this dish on the table in under an hour.

It's also a great way to use up fresh squash. If you have an abundance of summer squash from the garden or a trip to the farmer’s market, this recipe puts it to delicious use.

Plus, it's budget-friendly. Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s versatile. Serve it as a side dish for grilled chicken, pork chops, or even a holiday meal. You can also tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Yellow Squash Casserole lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in making the dish creamy, savory, and satisfying.

The yellow squash is the star of the show. Look for fresh, firm squash with smooth skin. Sautéing it before baking helps remove excess moisture and enhances its natural sweetness.

For the cheese, sharp cheddar is a must. It adds a bold, tangy flavor that complements the mild squash. You can mix in some Parmesan for an extra layer of depth.

The creaminess comes from sour cream and eggs. They bind everything together and give the casserole a rich, luscious texture. If you prefer, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a lighter version.

Ritz crackers create that classic crispy topping. Their buttery crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft squash. If you don’t have Ritz, panko breadcrumbs with a touch of melted butter work just as well.

A bit of onion and garlic provides aromatic depth. Finely dicing and sautéing them ensures they blend seamlessly into the dish.

How To Make This Yellow Squash Casserole

Making this Yellow Squash Casserole is as easy as it is delicious. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup later.

Next, slice your yellow squash into thin rounds. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the squash with diced onions and minced garlic until tender. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps remove excess moisture, preventing a watery casserole.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese. This creamy mixture binds the casserole together and ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.

Once the squash has cooled slightly, fold it into the cheese mixture. Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

For the topping, crush Ritz crackers and mix them with melted butter. Sprinkle this over the casserole, creating that irresistible golden crust.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This Yellow Squash Casserole stores beautifully for easy reheating.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container. It will keep fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.

To freeze, wrap the baked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking at 350°F until warmed through.

Reheating is simple—just pop a portion in the microwave for a quick meal, or bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispy topping.

Variations and Substitutions

This Yellow Squash Casserole is easy to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs.

For a healthier twist, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use whole-wheat breadcrumbs instead of crackers.

Want to add protein? Mix in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for an even heartier dish.

Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers or crushed almonds for the topping.

Love spice? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses—Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack can bring new flavors to the dish!

With so many ways to enjoy this Yellow Squash Casserole, you’ll never get tired of making it. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite comfort food!

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