Creamy Yellow Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting side dish that’s sure to impress, this creamy yellow squash casserole with Ritz crackers is a perfect choice. It transforms simple yellow squash into a rich, cheesy bake with a buttery, crunchy topping. Ideal for family dinners and potlucks alike, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 medium onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 1/4-inch thick)
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and diced onion, sautéing until tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Step 2: While the vegetables cook, whisk the eggs in a large bowl. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk until combined. Season with cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Add the cooked squash and onions to this mixture and stir gently.
3. Step 3: Lightly grease a baking dish. Pour the squash mixture evenly into the dish. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and toss with the crushed Ritz crackers. Spread the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
4. Step 4: Bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let rest for 3 minutes before serving to help it set.

Tips & Variations

• To prevent a watery casserole, cook and drain the squash well before mixing. This removes excess liquid.
• Substitute yellow squash with zucchini or a mix of both for a slightly different flavor.
• Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyere for varied melty textures.
• Use butter crackers, seasoned breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips if you don’t have Ritz crackers.
• Try non-dairy milk like unsweetened almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free option, though the casserole may be less creamy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The topping may lose some crunch but will remain flavorful. For longer storage, assemble the casserole without the cracker topping and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding fresh topping and baking. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave, finishing briefly under the broiler to crisp the topping if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?

Yes, zucchini works well as a substitute or mixed with yellow squash. Just slice them evenly for consistent cooking.

Is it necessary to melt butter for the cracker topping?

Melting the butter helps the cracker topping brown nicely and adds rich flavor, so it’s recommended for the best texture and taste.

Creamy Yellow Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 432 reviews

• Author: Harper
• Total Time: 60-65 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy yellow squash casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping is a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Combining tender sautéed yellow squash and onions with a cheesy, seasoned creamy base, then baked to golden perfection, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing classic.

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Ingredients

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For the Base:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced (1/2-inch pieces)
• 4 cups yellow squash, sliced about 1/4-inch thick

For the Filling:

• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, half-and-half, or non-dairy alternative)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (such as Tillamook)

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, roughly crushed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables and Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow squash and diced onion, sauté until just tender and liquid is released, about 8-10 minutes, but avoid overcooking to keep some texture.
2. Assemble the Creamy Base and Combine: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly, then stir in cheddar cheese and milk until well combined. Season with cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Add the cooked squash and onions to this mixture and stir gently to combine evenly.
3. Prepare Topping and Bake: Lightly grease a baking dish. Pour the squash mixture evenly into the dish. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, toss it with the crushed Ritz crackers, and spread this over the casserole evenly. Bake for 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 3 minutes to set. This helps the casserole hold together when served.

Notes

• To avoid a watery casserole, cook the yellow squash until just tender and drain well before mixing with other ingredients.
• Add the cracker topping just before baking, especially if assembling ahead, to keep it crunchy.
• You can swap yellow squash with zucchini or a combination of both for a similar texture and flavor.
• Use any melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or Colby for variation; avoid soft cheeses like mozzarella to prevent excess moisture.
• Butter is preferred for both cooking and topping for the best flavor and browning, but olive oil or margarine can be substituted.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing is best done before adding the cracker topping for best texture retention. Thaw before baking and add fresh topping.
• This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, green beans, fresh salads, or Southern-style meals with ham and cornbread.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: yellow squash casserole, squash side dish, cheesy squash casserole, Ritz cracker topping, easy vegetable casserole, summer squash recipe, family dinner side