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!

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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!

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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.

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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)

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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.

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Step 2: Sauté the Squash & Onions

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

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Step 3: Mix the Casserole Filling

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

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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