Creamy Baked Yellow Squash Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Crackers Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting and flavorful dish that blends creamy texture with a delightful crunch, this Creamy Baked Yellow Squash Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Crackers Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a classic Southern-inspired casserole where tender yellow squash and onions mingle with sharp cheddar cheese and a luscious custard base, all crowned with buttery, crispy Ritz crackers. This dish delivers warmth and nostalgia in every bite, making it perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones or simply treating yourself to a cozy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients work together in harmony to create vibrant colors, rich flavors, and wonderful textures in the casserole. Each item plays an essential role—from the creamy base to the crunchy topping—making this recipe as simple as it is delicious.

• 2 tbsp butter: Provides richness and a buttery base for sautéing the squash and onions.
• 4 cups sliced yellow squash: The star of the dish, bringing mild sweetness and tender texture.
• 1 medium onion: Adds a subtle, savory depth and slight sweetness when cooked.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the casserole’s creamy filling together perfectly.
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese: Infuses the dish with a sharp, melty, cheesy flavor.
• 1 cup milk: Creates a smooth, custard-like consistency for the squash mixture.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Offers a gentle kick that elevates the overall taste subtly.
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and spice to the savory mix.
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers: Crushed to form a golden, buttery, and crunchy topping.

How to Make Creamy Baked Yellow Squash Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Crackers Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Squash and Onions

Start by preheating your oven to 350º F. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add your sliced yellow squash and chopped onion, cooking gently until both are tender and fragrant. This step softens the vegetables and helps build that wonderful base flavor you’ll love.

Step 2: Mix the Custard Base

In a large bowl, lightly whisk the eggs to create a smooth base. Then add the grated cheddar cheese and milk, whisking again until everything blends together beautifully. This mixture will become the creamy heart of your casserole.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Custard

Stir the cooked squash and onions into your egg mixture, folding them in to ensure every slice is coated evenly. This union guarantees that each delicious bite is creamy with melted cheese and tender vegetables.

Step 4: Add Butter and Seasonings

Use the same skillet to melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, then pour it into the casserole mixture. Sprinkle in cayenne pepper for a subtle heat boost, along with kosher salt and black pepper to round out the flavors. Stir well to evenly distribute all the seasoning.

Step 5: Bake with the Ritz Topping

Transfer the mixture to your casserole dish, spreading it out smoothly. Crush one sleeve of Ritz crackers and sprinkle them generously over the top to form a buttery, crunchy crust. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and the casserole feels firm to a gentle shake.

How to Serve Creamy Baked Yellow Squash Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Crackers Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the creamy casserole beautifully. A light dusting of extra sharp cheddar on top of the crackers before baking can also amp up cheesiness and appeal.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs effortlessly with simple protein options like grilled chicken, baked fish, or a juicy pork chop. For fun veggie sides, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus to balance the richness with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch perfect for dinner parties or holiday meals. Another fun idea is layering the squash mixture with sliced tomatoes or zucchini for added texture and an eye-catching presentation that still maintains the spirit of the classic recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick reheat and enjoy option later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen before baking. Prepare as instructed, but instead of baking, cover it well and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual—this makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350º F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispy Ritz cracker topping. Alternatively, a quick microwave restart works in a pinch but may soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of squash?

Absolutely! While yellow squash provides sweetness and color, zucchini or a mix of summer squashes can also work wonderfully in this casserole without sacrificing flavor.

Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat products. Just be sure the cheese you use is free from animal rennet if you want to keep it strictly vegetarian.

Can I substitute the Ritz crackers topping?

Yes, if you prefer, crushed breadcrumbs or panko can provide a crunchy topping as well. You might also mix in some grated Parmesan for extra savory notes.

How spicy is the casserole with cayenne pepper?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild warmth rather than intense spiciness. If you are sensitive to heat, feel free to reduce or omit it without losing much of the dish’s character.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead and bake it later?

Definitely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient if you want to prep in advance for gatherings or meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Creamy Baked Yellow Squash Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Crackers Recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Its cozy, cheesy goodness paired with a buttery topping is pure comfort food magic. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite to share for years to come.

Creamy Baked Yellow Squash Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Crackers Recipe

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This classic Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring tender yellow squash and onions baked in a creamy, cheesy mixture with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners or holiday meals, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 49 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 4 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cups sliced yellow squash
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp crushed Ritz crackers

Instructions

1. Preheat and Sauté: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and onions, cooking them until they are tender but not browned, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, lightly whisk the two eggs. Add the grated cheddar cheese and milk to the eggs, whisking until well combined to form a smooth mixture.
3. Mix Vegetables with Egg Mixture: Stir the cooked squash and onions into the egg, cheese, and milk mixture thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Add Butter and Seasonings: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet used earlier, then pour that melted butter into the squash mixture. Add cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste, stirring well to incorporate all the flavors.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the entire squash mixture into a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers over the top to create a crunchy topping. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set, showing no jiggle when gently shaken.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute gluten-free crackers for Ritz crackers or omit the topping.
• Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Ensure the casserole is fully set before removing it from the oven to avoid a runny texture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.