Easy Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe

There's something irresistibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven. This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish.

I first made this casserole when my garden exploded with an abundance of yellow squash one summer. Not wanting any to go to waste, I experimented with different recipes and found that a simple combination of fresh squash, cheese, and a crispy cracker topping was an instant hit with my family. Now, it’s a go-to side dish for weeknight dinners and holiday feasts alike.

Why You'll Love This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this deliciously creamy and cheesy dish! Whether you're serving it as a side or a main course, this Yellow Squash Casserole checks all the right boxes.

First, it's quick and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this casserole ready for the oven in under 20 minutes.

It’s also a budget-friendly recipe. Yellow squash is inexpensive and abundant in the summer, making this a great dish to stretch your grocery budget while still delivering big on flavor.

Another reason to love this recipe is its incredible texture. The squash becomes beautifully tender, the cheese adds a luscious creaminess, and the buttery cracker topping provides the perfect crispy contrast.

Best of all, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, everyone will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Easy Yellow Squash Casserole comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Yellow squash is the star of this dish. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with cheese and butter. Be sure to slice it evenly to ensure even cooking.

Cheddar cheese adds a rich, sharp flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash. I recommend using freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and creaminess.

Sour cream brings a delightful tanginess and smooth texture to the casserole. It helps create a rich and creamy filling without being too heavy.

Ritz crackers provide the golden, buttery crunch that makes this dish extra special. Crushed crackers on top form a deliciously crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy squash.

Butter binds the cracker topping together and enhances the overall richness of the casserole. A little bit goes a long way in adding that irresistible buttery flavor.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a baking dish and a mixing bowl to bring everything together with ease.

How To Make This Easy Yellow Squash Casserole

Making this Yellow Squash Casserole couldn’t be simpler! Just follow these easy steps for a perfect dish every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Next, cook the sliced yellow squash in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes tender. You can sauté it with a bit of butter for extra flavor. Drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and seasonings. Stir everything together until the mixture is well blended and creamy.

Pour the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Then, in a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter to create the crispy topping.

Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the squash mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so the flavors can meld together.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully! Simply cover and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

To freeze, place the fully cooled casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For reheating, warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Yellow Squash Casserole is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences and dietary needs.

If you prefer a low-carb version, swap the Ritz crackers for crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with butter for a keto-friendly topping.

Want to add more protein? Mix in some cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the squash mixture before baking.

You can also experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is classic, swapping it out for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan can add a whole new layer of flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this Easy Yellow Squash Casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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