This classic Squash Casserole with sharp cheddar and buttery crackers is a staple side dish that deserves a spot on your holiday table. Boiling the squash and onion until tender creates a wonderfully soft base, which gets folded into a creamy, cheesy mixture. Baked until golden and bubbly, this comforting dish is a nostalgic favorite that always brings a sense of warmth to any gathering. It truly is the ultimate classic comfort food with cheddar and garlic.
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Table of Contents
Ingredients for Squash Casserole
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this savory casserole with sour cream and onions. I love using fresh, humble produce—it reminds me of my days at the Provençal market, picking out the brightest yellow squash.
For the casserole
- Yellow squash – Slice it into rounds for the perfect texture and bite.
- Yellow onion – Finely chopped to blend seamlessly into the mix.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – Grated for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Sour cream – Adds creaminess and a tangy richness.
- Unsalted butter – Melted to bring everything together.
- Egg – Lightly beaten to bind the ingredients beautifully.
- Kosher salt – Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
- Garlic powder – A little goes a long way for that savory depth.
For the topping
- Buttery round crackers – Crushed and sprinkled on top for a golden, crispy finish.
Cook Time for Easy Squash Casserole
I always find this Squash Casserole to be such a forgiving dish for busy weeknights. It comes together in under an hour, giving you plenty of time to focus on your main course, like this delicious baked chicken and broccoli alfredo.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Make Baked Squash Casserole
Making this easy cheesy baked yellow squash dish feels like wrapping your kitchen in a warm hug. It’s one of those recipes where every step builds on the last, creating layers of comfort.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, ensuring the entire surface is coated to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the sliced squash and chopped onion. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. Drain well using a colander and transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine the Goodness
Add the grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, lightly beaten egg, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the bowl with the squash and onion. Use a rubber spatula to stir until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with the spatula to create a smooth and level surface. Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface for a crispy, buttery cracker topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Squash Casserole truly sing. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—that’s what Southern cooking is all about!
- Flavor Swap: For a different twist, try using a smoky gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. It adds a wonderful depth that pairs beautifully with the squash.
- Diet Tweaks: To lighten it up, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and a whole-grain cracker for the topping. If you’re looking for more healthy inspiration, our collection of healthy baking recipes has plenty of ideas.
- Texture Fix: The key to avoiding a watery casserole is to drain the cooked squash and onion extremely well. I sometimes even press them gently with a clean tea towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish reheats beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. It’s a fantastic side for other make-ahead meals, like this hearty angel beef casserole.
Squash Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds yellow squash sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers like Ritz
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
- saucepan
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the sliced squash and chopped onion for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- To the bowl, add the grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While this comforting Squash Casserole is definitely an indulgent treat, it still offers some wonderful nutritional benefits thanks to its vegetable base. Yellow squash provides vitamins A and C, plus a good dose of fiber to support digestion. I love knowing that even our favorite comfort foods can contribute to our wellbeing when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. For more nutritious side dish ideas, check out our collection of delicious vegetable side dishes that pair beautifully with any meal.
This creamy squash bake with buttery cracker topping provides a good balance of protein from the cheese and egg, healthy fats from the dairy, and complex carbohydrates from the vegetables. If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate nutritious squash into your meals, our healthy spaghetti squash recipes offer plenty of inspiration. For those interested in proper squash preparation methods that maximize nutritional retention, I always recommend gentle cooking to preserve both flavor and nutrients.
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Supports eye health and immunity |
| Vitamin C | Antioxidant protection and collagen production |
| Fiber | Promotes digestive health and satiety |
| Calcium | Supports bone health from dairy ingredients |
A Lighter Version of Easy Squash Casserole
If you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer a healthier twist on this classic, I’ve got some simple swaps that still deliver amazing flavor. This easy cheesy baked yellow squash dish adapts beautifully to lighter ingredients without sacrificing that comforting taste we all love.
For a leaner version, try using reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. The tanginess remains, but with more protein and less fat. I often use whole grain crackers for the topping—they provide a wonderful crunch and extra fiber. For more healthy cooking inspiration, our collection of healthy Thanksgiving sides includes plenty of crowd-pleasing options that don’t compromise on flavor.
You can also reduce the butter by half and add a tablespoon of olive oil instead—it still brings richness but with healthier fats. If you love this lighter approach, you might enjoy our potato squash casserole which uses similar techniques for a nutritious twist on comfort food classics.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I know many of you have asked about adapting this squash casserole for specific dietary needs, and I’m happy to share what’s worked in my kitchen. Whether you’re sugar conscious or managing dietary restrictions, small tweaks can make this dish work for almost everyone at your table.
For those watching their sugar intake, this savory casserole with sour cream and onions is naturally low in sugar, especially if you use full-fat dairy products without added sugars. If you’re looking for even more diabetic-friendly options, consider reducing the cheese slightly and adding extra herbs for flavor. I’ve found that using almond flour mixed with herbs makes a wonderful low glycemic alternative to the cracker topping too.
For gluten-free needs, simply swap the crackers for your favorite gluten-free variety—they work just as beautifully for that crispy finish. Remember, portion control is key for血糖管理, and this dish freezes beautifully for future meals when you need a quick, comforting option.
How to Serve Squash Casserole
This classic comfort food with cheddar and garlic has graced our family table for generations, and I have the fondest memories of serving it at Sunday dinners after church. My grandmother would always make extra to ensure everyone had leftovers for Monday night—a tradition I continue to this day.
I love pairing this baked squash casserole with simple roasted proteins—it complements everything from herb-roasted chicken to baked fish beautifully. For a heartier meal, try it alongside our comforting cowboy casserole for the ultimate comfort food spread. The creamy texture also pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables for balance.
For holiday gatherings, I often serve this as part of a larger vegetable medley alongside other favorites like our cheesy ranch potatoes. The combination of textures and flavors creates a memorable side dish spread that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Remember to let it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking—this allows the flavors to meld perfectly and makes serving much easier.
Mistakes to Avoid
After making this Squash Casserole countless times over the years, I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way. Let me share the most common pitfalls so you can avoid them and create the perfect dish every time.
The biggest mistake I see is not properly draining the squash after cooking. That extra moisture can turn your beautiful creamy squash bake with buttery cracker topping into a watery mess. I always press the cooked squash between clean kitchen towels or use a potato ricer to remove as much liquid as possible.
Another common error is overbaking the casserole. When you bake it too long, the eggs can become rubbery and the cheese separates. I’ve found that 25-30 minutes at 350°F is the sweet spot for that perfect golden-brown finish. For more baking tips, check out our guide to healthy baking recipes that maintain perfect texture.
Don’t make the mistake of skipping the resting time! I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but letting your Squash Casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking allows everything to set properly. This patience makes serving so much easier and improves the flavor tremendously. For those interested in traditional squash casserole variations, you’ll find that proper technique makes all the difference.
How to Store Squash Casserole
My grandmother always said the best part of making Squash Casserole was enjoying it for days afterward. She’d wrap individual portions in wax paper and tuck them into our icebox—a tradition I continue today with modern storage methods.
For refrigerator storage, let your baked squash casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully for 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend covering it with foil and warming it in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
This dish freezes wonderfully too! I often make a double batch and freeze half for busy weeks. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For more make-ahead inspiration, our collection of healthy soup recipes offers plenty of freezer-friendly options.
If you find yourself with leftover ingredients, consider making our comforting classic chicken soup using similar vegetables. It’s another family favorite that stores and reheats beautifully.
Try This Squash Casserole Yourself
I hope this Squash Casserole becomes a cherished part of your family traditions just as it has in mine. There’s something truly special about sharing recipes that connect us across generations and create new memories around the table.
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this classic comfort food with cheddar and garlic always brings warmth and satisfaction. I’d love to hear how it turns out in your kitchen—nothing makes me happier than knowing these recipes are being enjoyed in homes across the country.
If you’re looking for more comforting casserole ideas, you might enjoy our angel beef casserole or the always-popular baked chicken and broccoli alfredo. For something a bit different, our chicken cordon bleu dip makes a wonderful appetizer that pairs beautifully with this main course.
Don’t forget to explore our collection of no-bake desserts for a sweet ending to your meal. And if you’re in the mood for something exotic, our tom kha gai soup offers wonderful Thai flavors that complement this Southern classic beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common mistakes in squash casserole?
The most common mistake is not properly draining the cooked squash, which makes the casserole watery. Also, overbaking can cause the eggs to become rubbery and the cheese to separate. Always let it rest before serving for the best texture.
What kind of squash is best for casserole?
Yellow summer squash works beautifully for casseroles because it has a mild flavor and soft texture when cooked. Zucchini can also be used, but may require more draining. For something different, try our Mexican sweet potato chicken soup which uses similar techniques.
What is Jackie Kennedy’s casserole?
Jackie Kennedy was known for her elegant squash casserole that featured simple ingredients prepared beautifully. Her version typically included yellow squash, onions, cheese, and a buttery cracker topping—very similar to this classic Southern preparation.
How do you keep squash casserole from being watery?
The key is thoroughly draining the cooked squash after sautéing. I press it between clean kitchen towels or use a potato ricer. Also, avoid covering during baking as steam can accumulate. Proper draining makes all the difference for perfect texture.
More Comforting Casseroles You’ll Love
If this squash casserole warmed your heart, you’ll adore these other family favorites that bring the same cozy comfort to your table.
Potato Squash Casserole – A hearty twist that combines two comfort food classics in one delicious bake.
Cowboy Casserole – Loaded with ground beef, beans, and corn for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes – Creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible potato perfection.
Angel Beef Casserole – Tender beef with pasta in a rich, savory sauce that everyone adores.
Baked Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo – Creamy Alfredo goodness with tender chicken and fresh broccoli.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Dip – All the flavors of the classic dish in a warm, dippable format perfect for gatherings.
