Easy Southern Squash Casserole

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Southern Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a down-home, comfort-food classic to share that’s bound to make your taste buds do a happy dance. It’s a simple and delicious true Southern gem that combines the goodness of summer squash with the irresistible crunch of Ritz Crackers.

In the South, it doesn’t matter if you don’t grow your own garden. It is common to come home to a large basket of squash and zucchini on your doorstep gifted by a neighbor with a well-producing garden. When life gives you squash, you make squash casserole, Instant Pot Stuffed Squash, Zucchini Fries or Quick Pickled Zucchini!

Tender yellow squash is sliced thin, combined with a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with buttery crackers and baked to perfection. Old fashioned squash casserole is the type of dish that Grandma would have made but it stands the test of time. it’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or just when you’re craving some good ol’ comfort on a weeknight. And the best part? It’s easy-peasy to whip up!

From meal trains to Sunday supper with crispy whole chicken, from BBQs to town potlucks, this squash casserole recipe is one you will return to time and time again. 

Related Link : Candied Sweet Potatoes.

Why make this recipe

• Southern Charm – This yellow squash casserole recipe encapsulates the heart and soul of Southern comfort food. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.
• Perfect for an Abundance of Squash – If you find yourself with an abundance of summer squash (we’ve all been there!), this recipe is a fantastic way to put them to delicious use. It’s a celebration of seasonal produce that tastes like sunshine on a plate.
• It’s a Classic Favorite – Simple squash casserole is the type of dish that becomes a family tradition. Once you’ve shared this recipe, it’s sure to become a go-to for gatherings and special occasions, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.

Making casseroles is a great way to save time and money. Check out these casseroles for more flavorful ideas your family will love. 

Related Link : Salmon Croquettes.

Ingredient Notes

• Yellow squash – Thinly sliced fresh yellow squash adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture to the casserole. Zucchini or a combination of yellow squash and zucchini can also be used.
• Gluten-free Ritz crackers – These crackers bring a delightful buttery and crispy element to the dish. The gluten-free version allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the same classic taste. Use regular ritz crackers if gluten isn’t an issue.
• Butter – Butter is the key to a rich and flavorful base. You can use a light, neutral oil or margarine if preferred.
• Gluten-free Flour – This serves as a thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring a creamy consistency. Use regular flour if preferred.
• Milk – Milk adds creaminess to the casserole. You can use dairy-free milk but some options may alter the flavor.
• Sugar – A touch of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, balancing the savory and sweet flavors in the dish. Omit if desired.
• Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Salt and pepper enhance all of the flavors.
• Onion – Grated onion infuses a savory depth to the casserole.
• Sour Cream – Sour cream contributes a tangy creaminess, elevating the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
• Cheese – Shredded sharp cheddar cheese brings a bold, cheesy flavor and melts into a gooey, golden topping that crowns the casserole.

How To Make Squash Casserole

Don’t forget to check out my casserole recipes for more delicious meal options..

Get complete ingredients list and instructions from the recipe card further below.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F / 180 degrees C.
2. Slice and steam the squash for 10 minutes to soften it.
3. Prepare the crushed crackers topping by crushing the crackers and combining them with melted butter in a large bowl.
4. Whisk the remaining ingredients in a saucepan to make the cheese sauce.
5. Combine the drained squash mixture with the cheese sauce. Pour the cooked squash mixture into a casserole baking dish and top with the cracker crumbs.
6. Bake 20 minutes until hot, bubbly and golden brown.

Tips

• Use fresh ingredients. Frozen squash can be very watery. Fresh squash is preferred.
• Use a mandoline slicer to slice the yellow squash nice and thin.
• Slice the squash uniformly. This helps in even cooking, so you don’t end up with some pieces undercooked while others are too soft.
• Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasonings as needed.
• After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, and it makes for easier serving.

Delicious Variations

• Use zucchini – Feel free to mix in some zucchini with the squash or make this with all zucchini.
• Saute instead of steaming – Sautéing the squash before baking removes excess moisture, intensifies the flavor and contributes to a better texture in the casserole.
• Not gluten-free – If not gluten-free, then you can use regular flour and regular crackers.
• Add veggies – Feel free to add in some finely diced red bell pepper to this.
• Add more flavor – Add a pinch of homemade creole seasoning, crushed red pepper, garlic powder or a seasoning blend of your choice.

Prep and Storage

• Prep – Prepare up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.
• Store – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze – If you freeze squash casserole in advance, prepare without the topping and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add the cracker topping and bake as directed.
• Reheat – Reheat in a toaster over to maintain the crispy topping. You can also reheat in the microwave.

FAQS

Similar Recipes

• Scalloped Corn.
• Easy Candied Sweet Potatoes.
• Easy Shrimp Creole.
• Creole Seasoning.
• Instant Pot Jambalaya.
• Hoppin John.
• Red Potato Salad.
• Grape salad.
• Salmon Croquettes.
• Brunswick Stew.

Serve with

• Instant Pot Chicken Breast.
• Air Fryer Pork Chops.
• Cajun Fish Fillet.

Recommended Tools

• A mandoline slicer makes slicing squash and zucchini a breeze.
• Keep a variety of casserole dishes on hand for baking and serving.
• For the best tools to help make your recipe even easier and more successful, check out my collection of the Best Kitchen Tools on Amazon.)

Weight Watchers Points

There are 7 Blue Plan SmartPoints in a serving of this Yellow Squash Casserole.

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