Name: Southern Squash Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds yellow squash, sliced 1/4 inch thick; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons butter (for sautéing and greasing); 3 tablespoons melted butter (for topping); 1 teaspoon salt, divided; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed

If you love comfort food with a little southern charm, then you absolutely have to try this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe. It’s a warm, cheesy, and satisfying side dish that brings the humble yellow squash to life with a creamy mixture and a crunchy cracker topping that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, family gathering, or just a weeknight meal, this casserole delivers cozy vibes and rich flavors in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat lay of various small white bowls and a white plate on a white marbled surface, each holding different cooking ingredients: a large white bowl filled with thinly sliced yellow squash with visible seeds, a smaller white bowl with shredded bright orange cheese, a large white bowl packed with light golden toasted breadcrumbs, a white bowl of finely chopped white onions, a small white bowl of light yellow cream, another small white bowl with white granulated sugar, a small bowl with light beige powder, a bowl with a red spice powder, a bowl of mixed seasoning, a bowl of white creamy sauce, and two clear glass bowls; one contains two raw eggs, and the other one holds melted yellow butter or oil. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe, you’ll use simple but essential ingredients that each play an important role. Fresh yellow squash provides a tender base; cheddar cheese adds melty richness; and the buttery cracker crumb topping gives the perfect crispy finish. Every component works together to create a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and totally irresistible.

3 Tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing the squash and onions, and also mixing with cracker crumbs for the topping – it adds richness and depth.
3 pounds yellow squash sliced 1/4 inch thick: This fresh squash is the star of the recipe and provides wonderful texture and mild sweetness.
1 medium yellow onion diced: Adds a subtle savory touch and natural sweetness when sautéed.
1 teaspoon salt divided: Enhances the overall flavors of the casserole in both the cooking and the cheese mixture.
2 large eggs beaten: Helps bind the ingredients together, making the casserole creamy and cohesive.
1/2 cup sour cream: Contributes tangy creaminess that elevates the texture and flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty cheesiness that’s essential for southern comfort dishes.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness, balancing the squash perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick, enhancing the overall seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Imparts a mild smoky flavor and beautiful color.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A hint of heat that livens the dish just enough to keep things interesting.
1 cup Ritz crackers crushed: Creates a buttery and crunchy topping that contrasts delightfully with the creamy casserole.
3 Tablespoons melted butter: Mixed with cracker crumbs to ensure a golden and crisp finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Squash and Onion

Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash, diced onion, and half a teaspoon of salt. Sauté everything gently until the squash is tender and the onions have softened, about 8 to 10 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for the casserole by softening the vegetables and concentrating their natural sweetness. Don’t forget to drain any excess liquid from the skillet to keep your casserole from becoming watery.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Mixture

Next, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and the remaining half teaspoon of salt. This mixture creates the creamy, cheesy heart of the casserole, blending tangy, savory, and spicy notes that make this recipe unforgettable. The eggs will act as a binder, while the sour cream and mayonnaise provide smooth richness.

Step 3: Combine and Spread

Gently fold the cooked squash and onion into the cheese mixture until everything is evenly coated. The goal here is to keep the squash tender and intact while ensuring every bite has that luscious, creamy texture. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake

In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are completely coated. Then sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole. This topping is what turns this dish from creamy to crunchy in the best way possible. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cracker topping is a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to let everything set and intensify in flavor.

How to Serve Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular dish filled with a baked casserole that has a textured, golden-brown crumb topping. Underneath the topping, thin slices of yellow squash are visible, arranged in a single layer. The crumb layer looks crunchy with small pieces of breadcrumbs scattered evenly across the top. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, and a red and white checkered cloth is partially visible in the bottom right corner, with a bulb of garlic placed nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To give this Southern Squash Casserole an even more inviting look and added freshness, consider sprinkling some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also enhance its warm color and hint at its slight spicy undertone.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a classic southern side, and it pairs beautifully with traditional mains like fried chicken, baked ham, or roasted pork. For a lighter meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, portion this dish into individual ramekins and bake them for personalized servings. You can also layer it in a clear glass baking dish to show off the vibrant yellow squash and golden cracker topping, adding visual appeal to your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Southern Squash Casserole, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the casserole holds its creamy texture and delicious flavors.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, although for best results, freeze it before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra time until it’s heated through and the topping is golden.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly. To refresh the cracker topping’s crunch, you can broil it for a few minutes at the end of reheating, but watch closely to prevent burning.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash in this recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow squash is traditional and adds sweetness and tenderness, you can try zucchini or a combination of summer squash varieties. Just slice them similarly and adjust the sautéing time as needed.

Is there a low-fat version of this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe?

Yes, you can swap out mayonnaise and sour cream for their low-fat or Greek yogurt alternatives. Reducing butter slightly and using reduced-fat cheese can also help lighten the dish without sacrificing much flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have Ritz crackers for the topping?

Crushed saltine crackers or even panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter make excellent substitutes for the crispy topping, providing a similar buttery crunch.

Can this casserole be made vegan or dairy-free?

With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, plant-based cheese, and egg alternatives, this recipe can be adapted for vegan or dairy-free diets. However, the texture and flavor might differ slightly from the original.

How spicy is this dish with the cayenne pepper?

The cayenne pepper adds just a gentle warmth that complements the other seasonings without making it spicy hot. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or leave it out entirely.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe. It’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form—simple, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for an easy side to brighten your table, this recipe is a winner you’ll want to keep coming back to. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Southern Squash Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need