Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit crunchy on top, you’re in for a treat. I absolutely love sharing this Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on your plate, perfect for family dinners, holiday spreads, or whenever you need a little extra comfort in your life. Stick around—I’ll walk you through all my insider tips to nail this every single time!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I appreciate about the ingredients here is how they come together to create layers of flavor and texture — the squash cooks down nice and tender, while the cracker topping bakes up golden and crisp. Plus, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper kicks up the flavor without overpowering the dish.

• Butter: Adds that rich, creamy base. I like using real butter to get that perfect golden flavor.
• Yellow Squash: Fresh is best here; choose firm squash without soft spots.
• Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor once softened.
• Eggs: Acts as a binder, holding everything together wonderfully.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings that classic, bold cheesy taste I adore in casseroles.
• Milk: Helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): This little addition wakes up the dish with a gentle zing.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
• Ritz Crackers: The buttery, flaky cracker topping is what takes this casserole from good to unforgettable.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own, and this Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe is no exception. Over the years, I’ve experimented with a few tweaks to keep it fresh or suit different dietary needs — you’ll find it’s super flexible.

• Adding Bacon: I once tossed in crispy cooked bacon bits for an added savory crunch—my family loved the smoky twist!
• Using Different Cheeses: Mixing sharp cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack gives a milder, gooier result that’s just as delightful.
• Spicing it Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some smoked paprika or chili flakes instead of cayenne for a smoky kick.
• Making it Gluten-Free: Swap the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep it safe and delicious.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Squash and Onions Until Tender

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add your sliced yellow squash and chopped onions and cook slowly until they’re tender and have released some of their moisture—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Patience here is key; cooking them gently keeps the squash from getting mushy and helps mellow the onions.

Step 2: Mix the Cheesy Egg Base

While the squash is cooking, whisk together the eggs, grated cheddar cheese, and milk in a large bowl until well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes the casserole so luscious. Once the squash and onions are ready, add them to the bowl and stir everything together gently but thoroughly.

Step 3: Add Butter and Seasonings to the Mix

Use the same skillet you cooked the veggies in to melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour this melted butter into your squash and egg mixture—this little trick adds moisture and that irresistible buttery flavor. Then sprinkle in the cayenne pepper if you’re using it, along with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Give everything a great stir so all those flavors marry together.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour your squash casserole mixture in evenly, then top generously with crushed Ritz crackers—this topping will crisp up beautifully while baking. Pop it into a 350º F oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely golden brown and the casserole is set (give the dish a gentle shake to see if it jiggles). Hint: a little jiggle means it needs more time.

Step 5: Let it Rest Before Serving

Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 3 minutes before digging in. This helps everything set perfectly so every scoop holds together. You’ll love how the creamy, cheesy filling contrasts with that buttery, crispy topping.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving—it adds a pop of color and that fresh herb aroma that balances the richness nicely.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs like a dream with roast chicken, baked ham, or even a simple grilled steak. For a complete meal, I usually add a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies on the side to keep things balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Once, I baked this recipe in smaller individual ramekins for a dinner party — it was such a fun way to serve it hog-free and gave everyone their own personal “squash casserole pot.” You can also layer it in a clear glass dish to show off the colorful layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge, and it stays good for about 3 days. When reheating, I find reheating in the oven preserves that crispy topping better than a microwave.

Freezing

This Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe freezes well if you plan ahead. Just bake as usual, cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 325º F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil for the last 5 minutes helps crisp the topping back up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Cheesy Baked Squash Casserole Recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform into something so comforting and delicious. This casserole has become a staple in my kitchen—whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, it never disappoints. I honestly think once you try it, you’ll find it’s one of those recipes you keep coming back to again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and give this little slice of cheesy, buttery goodness a whirl—you won’t regret it!

Print