Yellow Squash Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Southern Classic

Yellow Squash Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and savory dish that’s perfect as a holiday side, a potluck favorite, or a weeknight dinner addition. Made with tender squash, onions, garlic, and a crispy topping, this dish brings Southern charm to the table with every bite.

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use fresh summer squash, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

✔️ Creamy, Cheesy, and Delicious – The squash is baked to perfection with a rich, cheesy sauce.
✔️ Great for Holidays or Everyday Meals – A Southern favorite that pairs well with any meal.
✔️ Simple & Budget-Friendly – Uses basic pantry staples to create big flavor.
✔️ Perfect for Using Fresh Yellow Squash – A delicious way to enjoy summer produce!

Secrets to the Best Yellow Squash Casserole

1. Sauté the Squash Before Baking

Cooking the squash before baking removes excess moisture and enhances the flavor.

2. Add a Crispy Topping for Texture

A crunchy topping made with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers adds the perfect golden crust.

3. Use a Mix of Cheeses

Combining cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère creates a rich and gooey texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

4 cups yellow squash, sliced (about 2 medium squash)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 egg, lightly beaten

For the Topping:

1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crunch)

How to Make Yellow Squash Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Dish

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

Step 2: Sauté the Squash & Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced squash, onions, and garlic, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Filling

In a large bowl, combine:
✅ Cooked squash mixture
✅ Shredded cheddar cheese
✅ Sour cream & mayonnaise
✅ Lightly beaten egg
Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the squash mixture into the greased baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan (if using).
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Store & Reheat Yellow Squash Casserole

Storing Leftovers:

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions:

Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Can You Freeze This Casserole?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked casserole (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.

Fun Variations & Add-Ins

1. Bacon & Cheese Squash Casserole 🥓

Stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for extra smoky flavor.

2. Spicy Cajun Squash Casserole 🌶️

Add ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

3. Gluten-Free Squash Casserole 🌱

Use gluten-free crackers or almond flour breadcrumbs for the topping.

4. Chicken & Squash Casserole 🍗

Mix in 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein-packed meal.

5. Extra Veggie Casserole 🥦

Add ½ cup chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for more veggies.

What to Serve with Yellow Squash Casserole

This dish pairs perfectly with:

🍗 Grilled Chicken or Pork Chops – A great Southern-style dinner.
🥗 Crisp Green Salad – Adds a refreshing contrast.
🥔 Mashed Potatoes or Rice – A perfect comfort food combo.
🥖 Cornbread or Biscuits – To soak up all that cheesy goodness.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Southern Favorite!

Yellow Squash Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—the ultimate way to enjoy fresh summer squash! Whether you’re making it for a holiday meal, a summer cookout, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe never disappoints.

Try it out and let me know—what’s your favorite way to serve squash casserole?