Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven. This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is a Southern classic that brings together tender squash, a creamy sauce, and a crispy, buttery topping. It’s the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to use up an abundance of summer squash from my garden. After tweaking and perfecting it over the years, this version has become a staple at our family gatherings. It’s rich, flavorful, and best of all—super easy to make!

Why You'll Love This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet delicious dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation, this casserole checks all the boxes.

First, it’s quick and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this dish in the oven in no time.

It’s also budget-friendly. Yellow squash is inexpensive and widely available, making this recipe an affordable option for feeding a family.

And let’s not forget the incredible flavor! The combination of tender squash, creamy sauce, and a crunchy, buttery cracker topping makes each bite absolutely irresistible.

Best of all, this dish is versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences, whether by adding extra cheese, switching up the topping, or incorporating other seasonal veggies.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Easy Yellow Squash Casserole comes from its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making the dish rich and flavorful.

Yellow squash is the star of the show. Look for firm, vibrant squash with smooth skin. If using larger squash, you may want to remove some of the seeds to keep the texture just right.

Onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. A yellow or sweet onion works best, but a white onion will do in a pinch.

Cheese is what gives this casserole its creamy, melty goodness. Sharp cheddar is a great choice, but feel free to mix in parmesan or even Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz) create the perfect crispy topping. If you prefer, you can substitute with panko breadcrumbs for a slightly lighter crunch.

Butter and eggs help bind everything together, ensuring a creamy, rich casserole that holds its shape beautifully when served.

You’ll also need salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder to enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.

How To Make This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as can be! Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray.

Next, slice the yellow squash into thin rounds and sauté it in a large skillet with a little butter. Cook until the squash is tender and some of the moisture has evaporated—about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onions and cook for another few minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.

Once the squash and onions are cooked, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Stir in the beaten eggs, shredded cheese, and seasonings. Mix everything well so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, in a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole to create a golden, crispy topping.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so that it sets properly.

Storage Options

This casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

To store in the refrigerator, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply pop it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. If reheating a single portion, a quick zap in the microwave works too!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Make it extra cheesy by adding more cheese to the filling or mixing different types like gouda or mozzarella.
• Add protein by stirring in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
• Try a different topping by swapping out the crackers for panko breadcrumbs or even crushed potato chips for extra crunch.
• Incorporate more veggies by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach for an extra nutritious boost.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs in the topping.

This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a holiday meal, a potluck, or just a cozy dinner at home, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

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