Best Easy Squash Casserole Recipe

Southern squash casserole bakes tender yellow squash with a buttery cracker topping for a family-favorite vegetarian side. Creamy, comforting, and perfect alongside any protein for holiday meals and summer suppers.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 220 kcal
#vegetarian #comfort food #holiday side #vegetable casserole
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • yellow squash 2 lbs
  • onion 1 cup
  • cheddar cheese 1 cup
  • sour cream 1 cup
  • eggs 2 pieces
  • butter 4 tbsp
  • Ritz crackers 1.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 20 g 36%
Protein 7 g 13%
Fat 13 g 51%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. 2

    Slice yellow squash into 1/4-inch rounds; finely dice onion. Sauté squash and onion in 2 tbsp butter over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until fork-tender but not mushy.

  3. 3

    Transfer cooked squash and onions to a colander and gently press out excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.

  4. 4

    In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder; fold in shredded cheddar and half the crushed crackers.

  5. 5

    Stir in the drained squash mixture, combine gently, then pour into the baking dish. Top with remaining crushed crackers and dot with the remaining 2 tbsp melted butter.

  6. 6

    Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is set but still creamy in the center. Rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow structure to finish setting.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Yellow squash is the primary ingredient in this casserole, providing a tender texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor that defines the dish. It’s complemented by creamy sour cream and sharp cheddar cheese, which create the characteristic richness and body of the casserole.
Q. What cooking steps ensure the best casserole texture?
To achieve the classic creamy but non-watery texture, the cooked squash and onions should be gently pressed in a colander to remove excess moisture after sautéing. This prevents sogginess. Using the correct oven temperature and letting the casserole rest after baking also help set the structure.
Q. How can I prevent the casserole from becoming mushy?
Don’t overcook the squash during the sauté—cook until just fork-tender. Always drain well to remove water before mixing with the other ingredients. Bake uncovered to release extra moisture and allow the topping to crisp. These steps help maintain a rich yet firm consistency.
Q. How many calories and how are the macros balanced per serving?
Each 180g serving contains about 220 kcal, with roughly 20g carbohydrates (36%), 7g protein (13%), and 13g fat (51%). This makes the casserole moderately high in fat due to cheese and butter, but still balanced as a side dish.
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