Dive into the ultimate Southern comfort food with this irresistible yellow squash casserole! This beloved side dish transforms humble yellow squash into a creamy, savory delight. Understanding the nutritional value of this versatile vegetable can enhance your appreciation for it, as detailed by Verywell Health on the benefits of yellow squash. Topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust, it’s a dish that perfectly balances rich textures and comforting flavors. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for again.
Why You’ll Love This Yellow Squash Casserole
This delightful yellow squash casserole recipe brings together simplicity and incredible flavor. It’s perfect for busy parents and beginners looking for a reliable, delicious side.
- Irresistible Flavor Profile: Enjoy the creamy, cheesy squash filling paired with a golden, buttery cracker topping.
- Easy Preparation: Follow our straightforward steps to create a show-stopping dish with minimal fuss.
- Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Serve it as a holiday side, a potluck favorite, or an everyday family dinner addition.
- Seasonal Freshness: It’s an ideal way to utilize an abundance of fresh summer yellow squash from your garden or local market.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Option: Prepare parts of it in advance for a stress-free meal on busy days.
Ingredients
Gather your simple ingredients to create this fantastic yellow squash casserole:
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this versatile recipe. Yellow squash works best, but zucchini is a viable alternative for this squash bake. Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack blend to adjust the flavor profile. If Ritz crackers are unavailable, use crushed saltines, butter crackers, or even panko breadcrumbs for the topping. Whole milk offers the richest texture, but low-fat milk works just as well. Feel free to use fresh or frozen yellow squash; if using frozen, thaw and drain it thoroughly.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools for this delicious yellow squash recipe.
- Medium skillet or sauté pan
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Creating this comforting yellow squash casserole is simpler than you think. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time.
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for baking. Begin by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium skillet or sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions to the skillet. Cook them gently until they become tender, approximately 8-10 minutes. Avoid overcooking the squash, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
While the squash and onions cook, take a large mixing bowl. Add the two large eggs and lightly whisk them until just combined. Next, add the grated cheddar cheese and the milk to the bowl. Whisk these ingredients into the eggs until they are well-combined and smooth. This forms the creamy base for your squash bake.
Once the squash and onions are tender, carefully transfer them from the skillet into the egg and cheese mixture in the large bowl. Stir everything well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet you used earlier. Add this melted butter to the squash casserole mixture. Stir in the cayenne pepper, if you are using it, along with the kosher salt and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
Lightly spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Pour the prepared yellow squash casserole mixture evenly into the baking dish. Top the mixture with the crushed Ritz crackers, ensuring an even layer across the entire surface. This cracker topping creates a wonderful golden crust. Place the casserole dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top has lightly browned and the casserole feels set, without a “jiggle” when gently moved. Let the casserole sit for about 3 minutes after baking before you serve it. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes serving easier.
Pro Tips for the Best Yellow Squash Casserole
Achieve perfect results with these simple tips for your yellow squash casserole:
- Choose Wisely: Select firm, vibrant yellow squash that feels heavy for its size.
- Drain Thoroughly: After cooking, gently press excess liquid from the squash before adding it to the mixture.
- Don’t Overcook: Sauté the squash until just tender; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Even Topping: Spread the crushed crackers uniformly for a consistent golden crust.
- Check for Doneness: A slight jiggle in the center is okay, but it should mostly be set.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes to firm up.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile squash casserole adapts beautifully to various meals and occasions.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this delightful side with a savory roasted chicken or turkey.
- Serve it alongside a hearty pot roast or tender skillet pork chops.
- Complement your meal with fluffy mashed potatoes and a green vegetable.
- It’s an essential and welcome addition to any holiday meal spread.
- Enjoy it as a comforting stand-alone lunch or light dinner.
Storage
- Refrigerate any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, but do not add the topping. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Add the crushed cracker topping just before baking the thawed casserole.
Variations
- Add Bacon: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheese combinations, like Gruyère or smoked Gouda.
- Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme, chives, or parsley into the squash mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious yellow squash casserole.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Total Carbs | 13g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 7g |
Please note that these values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. This information is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen yellow squash for this recipe?
- Yes, you can! Thaw the frozen squash completely and gently squeeze out any excess water before cooking it.
- Why is my squash casserole watery?
- This often happens if the squash wasn’t drained properly after cooking. Yellow squash releases a lot of water, so ensure you press out the liquid.
- Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
- Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish, like a 10×15 inch, and you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.
- Is yellow squash casserole a Southern dish?
- Yes, it’s a beloved classic Southern comfort food, often seen at potlucks and holiday gatherings. For those interested in the culinary traditions behind such dishes, exploring the rich history of Southern cuisine offers fascinating insights.
- What kind of crackers work best for the topping?
- Buttery crackers like Ritz are highly recommended for their flavor and texture, but saltines or other butter-style crackers also work well.
Conclusion
This classic yellow squash casserole with its buttery cracker topping is truly a recipe to cherish. It embodies the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals, making it a perfect addition to any family dinner or special occasion. Easy to make and universally loved, it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness with a satisfying crunch. We’d love to hear how your casserole turns out, so feel free to share your thoughts and experiences!