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Southern Squash Casserole

Southern Squash Casserole is a classic Southern American side baked until bubbly with tender yellow squash and cheddar. It’s finished with a buttery Ritz cracker crust that turns golden and set.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Yellow squash
  • 2 lb yellow squash, sliced
Onion
  • 1 onion, diced
Butter
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted
Cheddar
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
Sour cream
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
Mayonnaise
  • 0.25 cup mayonnaise
Eggs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
Salt
  • 1 tsp salt
Black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
Ritz crackers
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Prep and bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 350F, then grease a 9x13-inch baking dish so the casserole releases cleanly.
  2. Cook the sliced yellow squash and diced onion in 2 tablespoons butter for 10-12 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally so they soften evenly.
  3. Drain the cooked squash and onion well in a colander to prevent a watery casserole.
  4. Mix the shredded sharp cheddar, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper until smooth, then fold in the drained squash mixture.
  5. Spread the cheesy squash mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top for even baking.
  6. Toss the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted 3 tablespoons butter, then sprinkle over the top so a golden crust forms.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes at 350F until golden and set, watching for bubbling edges and a firm center.

Notes

Pro tip: draining the squash well is key—excess moisture can keep the casserole from setting properly. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days; reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Freezing is not recommended because the squash can become watery when thawed. For a simple swap, use reduced-fat sharp cheddar to lower calories while keeping the cheesy texture.