Easy Squash Casserole Recipe

When it comes to easy comfort food, few dishes compare to a warm, cheesy, buttery squash casserole. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at Thanksgiving or just want a cozy weeknight side dish, this Southern squash casserole recipe is always a hit.

It features tender yellow squash and onions, creamy eggs and cheese, and a crunchy golden Ritz cracker topping that’s downright irresistible. It’s also one of the best ways to use up fresh summer squash when it’s in season or even frozen squash if you need a shortcut.

In short, if you’re looking for a cheesy vegetable bake that tastes like something your grandma used to make, this is the recipe for you.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Squash Casserole

Simple Ingredients – Most of the items are pantry or fridge staples
Perfect Texture – Creamy inside with a buttery, crispy top
Quick to Make – Only 15 minutes of prep, then the oven does the rest
Versatile – Customize with extra veggies, cheese, or even chicken
Holiday Favorite – A must-have side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter

This recipe is comforting, nostalgic, and full of flavor. It’s no wonder squash casserole remains one of the South’s favorite side dishes.

Squash Casserole Recipe

A cozy Southern side dish made with tender squash, sweet onions, creamy cheese, and topped with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or comforting family dinners.

Course: Side Dish Cuisine: American (Southern) Keyword: Easy Squash Casserole, Southern Squash Casserole, Cheesy Vegetable Bake Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 12

Easy Squash Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sautéing)
4 cups fresh yellow squash, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, diced
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¾ cup milk (whole milk preferred)
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for mixture)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed

Topping

2 tbsp butter, melted
Remaining crushed Ritz crackers

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sauté veggies: In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add squash and onion, cooking until soft (about 8–10 minutes).
Mix the base: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and shredded cheddar until smooth. Stir in the cooked squash and onion.
Season & assemble: Add remaining butter, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Mix well, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Add topping: Stir melted butter into crushed Ritz crackers and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake: Cook for 40–45 minutes, until golden and set. The top should be lightly crisp.
Cool & serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

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Tips to Prevent a Watery Casserole

Squash naturally contains a lot of water. To avoid a soggy casserole:

Cook it down: Sauté until the squash is very tender and most moisture evaporates.
Drain excess liquid: You can also gently press the squash mixture with a paper towel after cooking.
Avoid overcooking in the oven: Bake just until set to keep a creamy texture.

Storage, Reheating & Freezing

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or bake the whole dish at 350°F until heated through.

Freeze: Let the baked casserole cool completely. Wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

This easy squash casserole recipe is easy to tweak based on your taste or what you have on hand:

Add protein: Mix in diced cooked chicken or ground turkey
Use different cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Pepper Jack
Swap veggies: Add in zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms
Low-carb option: Skip the cracker topping or use crushed pork rinds
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs instead of Ritz

What to Serve with Squash Casserole

This casserole pairs perfectly with many mains and side dishes. Serve it with:

Roasted turkey or chicken
Baked ham
Barbecue ribs or pulled pork
Meatloaf
Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
Collard greens or green bean casserole

It’s also an excellent vegetarian holiday side dish when served alongside other favorites like mac and cheese or stuffing.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, but make sure it’s thawed and drained thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
Any buttery cracker will do. You can also use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes mixed with a bit of butter.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use two 9×13-inch dishes or a larger deep baking dish and add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time.

Can I make it dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Is squash casserole keto-friendly?
Not traditionally, due to the crackers and milk, but you can make it lower-carb by using heavy cream and omitting the cracker topping.

Final Thoughts

This Southern-style squash casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s comforting, rich, and always welcome on the table whether it’s a holiday celebration or a regular weeknight dinner. So the next time you’re craving something cozy and flavorful, or need a guaranteed win at a potluck, this cheesy squash casserole is the answer. And once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a go-to recipe in your home too.

Save it, pin it, or print it and make sure it’s on your next dinner or holiday menu.

Easy Squash Casserole Recipe