Southern Cheesy Squash Casserole: A Golden, Bubbly Classic

Tender yellow squash, creamy cheddar, and buttery Ritz topping—this Southern staple is pure comfort in a casserole dish

Introduction: A Side Dish That Feels Like Home

If you’ve ever sat down to a Southern-style Sunday dinner, chances are you’ve met a squash casserole. It’s the kind of dish that shows up at potlucks, holidays, and family reunions—warm, golden, and bubbling with cheesy goodness. This Southern Cheesy Squash Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food side: creamy, savory, and topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crunch that’s downright addictive.

Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken, grilled pork chops, or a holiday ham, this casserole brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this casserole so irresistible:

Vegetables:

• Yellow squash (2 lbs, sliced)
  Mild, tender, and slightly sweet—perfect for soaking up flavor.
• Medium onion (1, diced)
  Adds savory depth and balances the sweetness of the squash.

Tip: Slice squash evenly for consistent texture.

Creamy Base:

• Butter (3 tbsp for sautéing + 3 tbsp melted for topping)
  Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables.
• Sour cream (½ cup)
  Adds tang and creaminess.
• Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
  Creates a smooth, savory base—classic in Southern casseroles.
• Eggs (2 large, beaten)
  Help bind the casserole and add richness.

Optional: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian twist.

Cheese & Seasonings:

• Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups)
  Sharp and melty—adds bold flavor and gooey texture.
• Garlic powder (½ tsp)
  Adds savory warmth.
• Paprika (½ tsp)
  Adds color and a subtle smoky note.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  Essential for balancing flavors.

Optional: Add cayenne for a spicy kick or thyme for herbal depth.

Topping:

• Crushed Ritz crackers (1½ cups)
  Buttery and crisp—creates a golden crust.
• Melted butter (3 tbsp)
  Helps the topping brown and adds richness.

Tip: Crush crackers in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin for easy cleanup.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula or spoon
• Oven mitts

Optional: Use a cast iron skillet for rustic presentation and even baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet:

• Melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.

Add sliced squash and diced onion.

Sauté for 10–12 minutes, until:

• Vegetables are soft
• Onions are translucent
• Squash is lightly golden

Let cool slightly before mixing.

Tip: Don’t overcook—squash should be tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:

• Combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Stir until smooth and well blended.

Add the cooled squash and onion mixture.

Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.

Optional: Add a handful of cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl:

• Mix crushed Ritz crackers with 3 tablespoons melted butter.

Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.

Presentation Tip: Add a sprinkle of paprika or chopped parsley for color.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, until:

• Top is golden brown
• Filling is bubbly around the edges

Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Tip: Letting it rest helps the casserole set and makes slicing easier.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Holiday dinners
• Potluck parties
• Weeknight meals
• Southern-style brunches

Serve with:

• Fried chicken
• Grilled pork chops
• Roasted turkey
• Cornbread and collard greens

Yields:

• 8–10 servings

Tip: Double the recipe for larger gatherings or leftovers.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Garlic Herb

Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the filling.

Bacon Cheddar

Add crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor.

Spicy Kick

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

French Onion

Use caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.

Vegetarian Version

Use cream of mushroom soup and vegetable broth.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble casserole and refrigerate up to 1 day before baking.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in oven.

Tip: Reheat covered at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 10)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~8g
• Carbohydrates: ~18g
• Fat: ~20g
• Sugar: ~4g
• Sodium: ~480mg
• Fiber: ~2g

This casserole is:

• Creamy and cheesy
• Comforting and nostalgic
• Easy to make
• Perfect for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Southern Cheesy Squash Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of Southern comfort and simple ingredients done right. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and smiles to your table.