This Squash Casserole is the ultimate comfort food classic, blending tender yellow squash with a rich, cheesy sauce and a buttery cracker topping. It comes together in about an hour, making it an incredibly easy vegetable casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. You will love its creamy texture and the nostalgic flavor that makes it a beloved Southern squash recipe.

I first fell in love with this cheesy squash bake during my travels through the South, where it was a staple at every potluck and family reunion. The aroma of sautéed onions and sharp cheddar cheese bubbling away in the oven is a scent I always associate with home and celebration. I often serve it alongside other family favorites like my Corn Casserole or Sweet Potato Casserole for a complete holiday feast.

This dish has become my go-to for Thanksgiving, and it pairs wonderfully with our collection of easy Thanksgiving side dishes. The simple preparation allows you to enjoy the company of your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. It’s a recipe that truly celebrates the humble squash.

What You’ll Need for Your Perfect Squash Casserole

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Squash Casserole

This creamy Squash Casserole features tender yellow squash, melted cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. Perfect comfort food ready in under 80 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• oven
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• large pot
• colander
• large skillet
• mixing bowl
• knife
• cutting board
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons
• small bowl

Ingredients

  

• 3 pounds yellow squash about 6 to 8 medium squash
• 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter divided (1 stick)
• 2 large eggs lightly beaten
• 0.5 cup whole milk
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 sleeve buttery round crackers about 30 crackers, such as Ritz

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter or a non-stick cooking spray.
• Wash the yellow squash thoroughly, then trim the ends and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. In a large pot, bring about 2 quarts of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the sliced squash and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender but still holds its shape. Drain the squash very well in a colander, gently pressing out any excess water to prevent a watery casserole.
• While the squash cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 cup of finely chopped yellow onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
• In a very large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained cooked squash, the sautéed onion, 2 lightly beaten large eggs, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir gently with a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
• Pour the squash mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out to form an even layer.
• In a small bowl, crush the 1 sleeve of buttery round crackers (about 30 crackers) until fine, even crumbs form. Melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Pour the melted butter over the cracker crumbs and stir with a fork until the crumbs are completely moistened and evenly coated.
• Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs evenly over the top of the squash mixture in the baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the cracker topping.
• Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges and the cracker topping is golden brown and crisp. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Notes

Drain the cooked squash very well to prevent a watery casserole. Let rest before serving to allow it to set.

Keyword comfort food, squash casserole, vegetable side

Recipe Variations

• Extra Cheesy Version: Add an extra cup of shredded Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese to the filling for even more gooey goodness.
• Add Some Heat: Mix in a finely diced jalapeño with the onions or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
• Protein Boost: Stir in two cups of diced, cooked ham or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a hearty main dish.

My Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Drain the Squash Thoroughly: Pressing out as much liquid as possible after boiling is the single most important step to prevent a watery casserole.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability, so I always shred my own block of cheddar.
• Toast the Topping: For an extra crispy crust, you can briefly broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it much easier to slice and serve neatly.

How to Store and Reheat Your Casserole

• Store: Cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: This squash casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled dish tightly in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the entire casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping just before baking to keep it crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comforting Side Dishes to Try

• Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
• Honey Roasted Carrots
• Cheesy Garlic Bliss Bread
• Breakfast Casserole
• Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai
• Vegetable Grain Bowl

Why This Squash Casserole Is a Family Favorite

With its creamy texture, cheesy richness, and irresistible buttery cracker topping, this squash casserole is guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and incredible flavor, making it a reliable choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. I hope this comforting classic brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine.