Squash Casserole
The Best Southern Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
When it comes to comfort food, squash casserole with Ritz crackers is a southern classic that stands out. Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving gathering, a work potluck, or just a Sunday dinner with family, this dish is guaranteed to please a crowd. With creamy textures, rich flavors, and that signature buttery cracker topping, this is hands-down one of the best squash casserole recipes out there.
Kitchen Essential:
Slicing squash and onions can be a tedious task. I highly recommend picking up a rotary grater to make this step a breeze. This one is my absolute favorite because you can swap out the blades for premium sliceability. Go from slicing squash and onions to shredding cheese to grating Ritz crackers. All with the same kitchen gadget.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Squash Casserole
A southern squash casserole combines simple, everyday ingredients into something truly delicious. It’s made with fresh yellow squash, onions, a cheesy filling, and a crispy topping of buttery Ritz crackers. It’s the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and crunchy—a combination that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Squash casserole is a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Serve it with oven-roasted meats like chicken, pork tenderloin, or even alongside turkey and ham. Because of its simple yet indulgent nature, this casserole shines on any table, whether it’s for a special holiday like Thanksgiving or just a casual dinner night.
When is Yellow Squash in Season?
Yellow squash, one of the stars of this dish, is typically in season during the summer months. In the U.S., you can find fresh yellow squash from late May through early September. However, because squash stores well and is readily available in most grocery stores year-round, you can enjoy this yellow squash casserole recipe anytime!
When selecting squash, look for ones that are firm and feel heavy for their size. The skin should be smooth without any wrinkles or blemishes. Smaller squash tends to have a sweeter, more tender flavor, making them perfect for squash casserole recipes.
Ingredients for Squash Casserole:
- 3-4 fresh, yellow squash, about 4 cups once sliced
- 1 small onion
- 1-2 TBSP olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups sharp shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp garlic powder, divided
- 1 tsp pepper, divided
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 egg
- About 30 Ritz crackers (one sleeve), crushed
- ¼ cup butter, melted
How to Make the Best Squash Casserole:
This squash casserole with cream of mushroom soup is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few steps and ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s break it down!
*printable recipe card is available at the bottom of this page
Step 1: Slice and Sauté the Squash
The key to achieving a tender casserole is sautéing the squash and onions first. This helps soften the vegetables and remove some of the excess water. No one wants a watery casserole, right? As you’re cooking the squash, season it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance its flavor.
Step 2: Drain the Squash
After cooking the squash and onions, make sure to drain them well. Squash contains a lot of water, and draining it will prevent your casserole from becoming soggy. Gently press down with a spatula to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
The filling for this best yellow squash casserole recipe is rich and creamy, thanks to ingredients like sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, and an egg to hold everything together. Combining these creates a comforting, cheesy base that makes every bite indulgent. Mix in the squash and onions until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole:
Pour the filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Ritz Cracker Topping
Ah, the topping—the Ritz cracker squash casserole wouldn’t be complete without it! The buttery cracker crumbs create a crispy, golden layer on top, adding the perfect contrast to the creamy filling underneath. Toss the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter before sprinkling them evenly over the casserole.
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Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
Pop your assembled casserole into the oven and bake it until the top is a deep golden brown. For an extra bit of crunch, broil it for the last couple of minutes—but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Ways to Serve Squash Casserole
One of the best things about this southern squash casserole is its versatility. It makes an ideal side dish for a wide variety of meals. Here are a few of our favorite ways to serve it:
- Thanksgiving Sides Veggies: This casserole shines on a Thanksgiving spread. Its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness make it one of the best veggie sides for Thanksgiving, especially when served alongside turkey and stuffing.
- Work Potluck: Need a dish to bring to a work event? This squash casserole recipe is always a hit. It’s easy to transport and reheats well, making it perfect for sharing.
- Sunday Dinner: Pair this yellow squash casserole with oven-roasted chicken or pork tenderloin for a hearty and comforting meal. It’s simple, delicious, and will remind you of classic southern home cooking.
Tips for the Best Squash Casserole Recipe
To make sure your casserole comes out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:
- Drain the squash: As mentioned earlier, squash contains a lot of water. Make sure you sauté the squash well and press out as much liquid as possible to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use fresh yellow squash: If possible, use fresh, in-season squash for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize the cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a delicious tangy flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a different twist.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be made in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s a time-saver for busy holiday cooking!
Variations to Try
While this classic Ritz cracker squash casserole recipe is perfect as-is, feel free to tweak it to your tastes:
- Add protein: Turn this side dish into a main course by adding cooked bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken.
- Change up the crackers: Ritz crackers are a southern staple, but you could also use crushed saltines or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
A Southern Classic for Any Occasion
This southern squash casserole recipe is a must-have in your recipe rotation, especially during the holidays or for casual family meals. With its cheesy, creamy filling and crunchy Ritz cracker topping, it’s the perfect comfort food dish that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re serving it at a big holiday gathering or making it as a cozy side dish for a weeknight dinner, this squash casserole with Ritz crackers will always be a crowd-pleaser. So, the next time you’re planning your menu, don’t forget this best squash casserole recipe—you’ll be glad you made it!
Enjoy your next bite of southern comfort!
Related Recipes:
Squash Casserole
Ingredients
- 3-4 fresh yellow squash, about 4 cups once sliced
- 1 small onion
- 1-2 TBSP olive oil
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups sharp shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp garlic powder divided
- 1 tsp pepper divided
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 egg
- About 30 Ritz crackers one sleeve, crushed
- ¼ cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Slice the squash and onion: Thinly slice the squash and onion.
- Sautee the squash and onion: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sautee the squash and onions in the oil for 15 minutes stirring occasionally. While cooking, season with 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.
- Drain the squash and onion: Move the squash and onions to a colander and allow all excess liquid to drain. Use the back of a spatula to gently press down on the squash and squeeze out as much of the liquid as possible.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp pepper, sour cream, and egg. Mix in the squash and onions until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crackers are coated.
- Top the casserole: Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the squash mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes then broil on high for 2 minutes to brown the top (pay close attention while broiling so the top doesn’t burn).
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Looks delicious! Just curious how it would be with zucchini. Your thoughts
I bet it would be great. You could also do a combination.
At 66 years of age, I have only recently been introduced to squash. I was quite surprised how tender and flavorful they are. I may even grow a couple in my garden next year. I don’t need much since I only cook for me, myself, and I at this stage in my life. I’m excited to make this dish for an upcoming family event. Thank you for sharing!
Pam
Looking forward to trying this! Thank you for sharing.
I have made this with yellow squash and zucchini. We love it. I am going to try it with cauliflower since our squash season is over. Thanks for another good recipe!!
I cannot wait to make this. I grew up in the south so I love a good squash casserole!
Can’t wait to try this version. Squash can be yummy!
This sounds really good. I can’t wait to try it!
I’ve made this recipe it’s excellent very good flavor although my recipe does not call for soup.
This looks warm and comforting and delicious – I could eat the whole pan!
We aren’t big squash eaters, but this looks so interesting and different, I have to try it. Doesn’t look too difficult and I have that big slicer that you use yourself. (Actually love it for making my baked potatoe slices). But back to this casserole, looking forward to making it and not waiting till Thanksgiving.
Can’t wait to try this!
This looks like a delicious recipe to try! I love squash!! Thanks for sharing!
we are squash lovers here and I’ll definitely be making this comforting dish now and again for the holidays! yum!
this one looks really yummy. 😋
I can’t wait to make this. No one seems to serve it anymore. It’s so comforting.
This looks amazing! Perfect fall casserole. I think it would be a great addition to the Thanksgiving meal! I look forward to making this and the spinach dip recipe. I think this one is my favorite! Thank you!
Looks and sounds amazing
I am most interested in trying this Squash Casserole. This looks so good! I love squash! I also love all the ingredient’s in this recipe. This just might be something I will add to my Thanksgiving table! Thank you!
I would also love to win that warming mat! 🙂 This also would be perfect for Thanksgiving.
Thank you for all your great recipes!
Can’t wait to make this! I needed to find a recipe like this! Thanks
This looks delicious! Excited to give this a try and looks pretty simple.
Can’t wait to try this recipe.
My family loves squash and this recipe looks like it will be sure to delight.
I used to only like squash fried. I will not eat it sautéed with butter and garlic powder. This looks really good and I can’t believe I actually want to try it. 😊
i have been looking for a different veggie recipe to try- i like the idea of mixing it with Zucchini. Thank you for always surprising us with something special.
This looks delicious! Will definitely be making this soon.
This sounds so good! I can’t wait to try it & I still have yellow squash from my garden!
Lucky!
I’ve never made squash casserole, but I love it and can’t wait to try it!
This sounds so good & a great way to use up extra squash from the garden.
This sounds yummy also! Saving it to try next week!
Not a squash person but might try this one. Maybe switch out the spot cream with cottage cheese
I love trying new recipes, this looks so good!!
Definitely trying this recipe!
So glad I found this recipe! My 18 year old son loves squash casserole and asks for it all the time! I’m adding this recipe to our family dinner meal plan rotation!
Thank you, Jamie!
This dish looks yummy! I make a squash casserole that is close to the same but has crumbled cornbread in it and it’s sooo good. I can’t wait to try this new one as well!
Can’t wait to try this!
Every year I bring a new vegetable side dish for Thanksgiving and this one seems to be the winner for our holiday table. I don’t know who could resist a yellow squash casserole with squash, cheese, and a creamy sauce made from soup mixed with sour cream. Of course, I must make a batch before the holidays as a taste test.
This recipe brought back memories! My mother made squash casserole every Thanksgiving and she unfortunately passed away suddenly right before I got married and had to make my first Thanksgiving dinner- without any of her beloved recipes. I am so excited to try your recipe this year and fingers crossed my kids love it as much as I loved my moms!
Can’t wait to try this one! Husband loves veggies and the kids will eat anything with Ritz’s crackers… Shh, don’t tell them there’s a vegetable under there!
This looks holiday worthy! Can’t wait to try!
This sounds absolutely delicious! Will definitely be adding to our dinner menu this week!
This squash casserole looks amazing!
I have been making a squash casserole with Bisquick for many years. I’m excited to try this one for something different.
I can’t wait to try this! We have family coming soon so I’ll have a great excuse to make it. Thanks!
Hi Jamie, Here’s another ridiculously easy and delicious recipe. I’m making this tonight to serve alongside with a roast chicken.
Thank you, I appreciate the simplicity of all your recipes. They always turn out great. I’m so glad I found you on Instagram!
Wow does this sound delicious. Not only to I plan on making it but if it’s as good as I think it will be it will be added to our regular menu and holiday meals as an accompaniment. Thank you for sharing this recipe Jamie.
I’m always looking for sides to go with Sunday dinners. I love your recipes that I’ve made so far so I’m going to add this one in the mix next!
Look forward to making this as it looks delish!
This looks yummy!! Going to take this as my contribution dish at Thanksgiving!!
This looks delicious, I will make it for Thanksgiving for sure!
I can’t wait to try this squash casserole. It looks like the perfect one! Makes me hungry just looking at it. Your recipes are so good.
We have more vegetarians, than not, at our Thanksgiving table and this casserole will definitely be a great one to have. Will make it before because it sounds Yummy!!
I need to try this. It looks yummy. Thanks
I think my family will love this!
Delicious recipe, I’ve made this for years and it’s always a hit!
I am trying this and the dip very soon! They both look amazing!
I can’t wait to make this! Looks so yummy!!
Looks delicious. I’ll be giving it try.
This recipe looks delicious. I have never made it with cream of mushroom soup. Will definitely try it.
Love me some squash it’s such a comfort food to me on a cool fall day can’t wait to give it a try
Haven’t tried it yet, but it looks delicious!
Such a great casserole and good for you too!
This looks interesting, might give it a try for Thanksgiving.
Looks and sounds delicious! Love me some squash, can’t wait to try this recipe. Buying the ingredients today!
Hello Jamie
I absolutely love squash so I’ll be trying out this casserole very soon. Thank you!
This is an old favorite of mine growing up. Can’t wait to try your recipe for my kids and grands!
My family loves yellow squash and this recipe looks delicious. I can’t wait to try it.
Love squash and love a side I can make ahead! Will be trying this soon! Thank you!
Comfort food and easy! Thanks for sharing this!!
This looks so good and comforting this time of year!
I can’t wait to try this! It’s almost identical to the squash casserole recipe my mom used to make that I loved!!
oh, my goodness such a good ideal for part of your thanksgiving dinner and for anytime really!! I love squash casseroles but i have not made it like this one and i am excited to try this!!
I will let you know how i like it I will be making it this upcoming weekend to take to church potluck which i make a lot of your recipes for that at times lol
thanks for all the good ideals you give us!!