Cheesy Squash Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Squash Casserole is a must-try comfort dish that combines tender yellow squash with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy topping. It’s a Southern classic perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. This dish brings out the natural sweetness of squash while adding indulgent flavors that even picky eaters will enjoy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

yellow squashonioncheddar cheeseeggsour creammayonnaisepanko breadcrumbsbuttergarlic powderonion powdersaltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Slice the squash and onion thinly, then steam or sauté until tender.

In a large bowl, mix the cooked squash and onion with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.

Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the casserole.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 1 hour

Variations

Use zucchini instead of yellow squash for a different twist.

Add chopped cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.

Mix in crushed crackers instead of panko for a classic Southern touch.

Top with French fried onions for an added crunch.

Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for a slight kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.You can freeze the casserole before baking; thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Cheesy Squash Casserole

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

Is it okay to use frozen squash?

Yes, thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

Can I make it low-carb?

Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the topping and skip the mayo.

Why is my casserole watery?

Ensure the squash is well-drained after cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers or mushrooms pair nicely with squash.

Do I need to peel the squash?

No, the skin is tender and edible when cooked.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, it’s a good healthier substitute.

How do I make it spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Is it vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian unless meat is added.

Conclusion

Cheesy Squash Casserole is a creamy, savory classic that highlights the humble squash in the most comforting way. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a hearty side dish, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite.

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Cheesy Squash Casserole

Cheesy Squash Casserole

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring tender yellow squash, sweet onions, and a buttery cracker topping—perfect as a comforting side dish or potluck favorite.


Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds yellow summer squash (about 7½ cups sliced, ¼‑inch thick)
  • 2 cups chopped sweet onion
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (e.g., Ritz), crushed


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and grease a 2‑quart casserole dish.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add squash and onions; sauté, stirring frequently, until tender (about 10–12 minutes).
  3. Drain squash and onions in a colander, pressing gently to remove excess moisture.
  4. Transfer drained vegetables to a bowl. Stir in salt, pepper, sour cream, Parmesan, and cheddar until evenly combined.
  5. Spread mixture into prepared baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle crushed crackers evenly over top.
  7. Bake, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes or until crackers are golden and edges are bubbly.
  8. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Feel free to use zucchini or a mix of squash.
  • To prep ahead: assemble casserole (without cracker topping) and refrigerate; add crackers just before baking.
  • Leftovers keep 3–5 days refrigerated.
  • For freezer prep: assemble and freeze (without topping), then thaw before baking and adding crackers.