Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe – Cooking Classy

Yellow squash casserole is a classic Southern side dish that combines fresh vegetables, cheese, and a buttery topping for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, Sunday dinner, or a casual summer meal, this dish adds a cozy, golden touch to any table.

In this guide inspired by Cooking Classy and other trusted culinary sources, you’ll learn everything about creating the perfect yellow squash casserole — from the freshest ingredients to expert baking tips, plus variations and troubleshooting advice.

What Is Yellow Squash Casserole?

Yellow squash casserole is a baked dish made from sliced or sautéed yellow summer squash, usually combined with onions, eggs, cheese, and topped with crackers or breadcrumbs. Its origins are deeply Southern, making it a favorite in both traditional and modern kitchens.

Understanding the types of squash you use can make all the difference. Learn more about the different varieties in this Serious Eats guide to summer squash — it explains how textures vary between yellow squash, zucchini, and other summer gourds.

The dish is creamy, cheesy, and slightly crunchy on top, offering layers of flavor and texture. It’s a go-to recipe for cooks looking to use up abundant summer squash from the garden or farmers’ market.

Ingredients Overview

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Yellow squash (fresh, firm, medium-sized)
• Onion (sweet or yellow)
• Garlic (optional, for depth)
• Eggs (to bind the casserole)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or gruyère)
• Mayonnaise or sour cream (for creaminess)
• Butter (unsalted)
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, thyme, or paprika
• Crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs (for topping)

Need help estimating nutritional values? Check the USDA’s nutrient database to understand how many calories and vitamins your squash and cheese are packing.

Many cooks add their own twists — such as using cream cheese, adding bacon bits, or going dairy-free with vegan cheese alternatives.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a flawless, golden casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prep the squash:
   • Wash and slice yellow squash into thin, even rounds.
   • Sauté in a skillet with a little butter until just tender (about 5–7 minutes).
   • Drain excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.
3. Mix the base:
   • In a large bowl, whisk eggs with mayonnaise or sour cream.
   • Add shredded cheese, sautéed squash, and seasonings.
4. Assemble the casserole:
   • Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
   • Dot with butter for extra flavor.
5. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Tip: Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to help it set.

Pro Tips from Cooking Classy & Beyond

Get expert with these refined techniques:

• To prevent sogginess, salt the squash and let it sit in a colander for 15–30 minutes, then pat dry.
• Mix cheddar with parmesan for extra flavor depth.
• Use a mandoline slicer for even squash cuts.
• Add crushed garlic or shallots for a gourmet edge.
• For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes.

Nutritional Info & Health Notes

This dish is hearty but can be adapted for various diets:

• Calories (per serving): ~250–300
• Fat: Depends on cheese and mayo choices
• Low-carb: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or pork rinds
• Gluten-free: Use certified GF crackers or oats
• Vegetarian-friendly: As-is!

Common Variations & Twists

Get creative with these delicious modifications:

• With protein: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or rotisserie chicken.
• Mexican-style: Add diced jalapeños, cumin, and queso fresco.
• With other vegetables: Try mixing in zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
• Keto-friendly: Skip the topping or use crushed pork rinds.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based cheese and egg replacers.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This casserole pairs beautifully with many main courses. Consider serving it with:

• Baked or grilled chicken
• Smoked ham or turkey
• Pulled pork or BBQ ribs
• A crisp green salad or coleslaw
• Cornbread or dinner rolls

It’s especially popular at:

• Potlucks
• Thanksgiving
• Easter brunches
• Summer cookouts

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Plan ahead with these prep strategies:

• Make ahead: Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next day.
• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Tightly wrap the unbaked or baked casserole (no cracker topping) for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 325°F for 20–25 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Troubleshooting

Here’s how to avoid common problems:

• Casserole is watery:
  • Use less squash or sauté longer
  • Drain after cooking
• Texture too mushy:
  • Don’t overcook the squash
  • Use a firmer cheese
• Top doesn’t brown:
  • Increase heat for last 5 minutes
  • Broil for 2–3 minutes carefully
• Flavor too bland:
  • Add a splash of hot sauce, cayenne, or more cheese

FAQs

Can you freeze yellow squash casserole?
Yes! Freeze unbaked for best results. Bake straight from frozen with added time.

What can I use instead of crackers or breadcrumbs?
Try panko, gluten-free options, crushed cornflakes, or pork rinds for low-carb diets.

How do you keep squash casserole from getting watery?
Salt and drain squash before baking. Sautéing beforehand also reduces moisture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based cheese and vegan mayo or sour cream alternatives.

How long will leftovers last?
Up to 4 days refrigerated. Reheat in oven or microwave until hot.

Conclusion & Final Tips

Yellow squash casserole is a timeless, versatile dish that never goes out of style. Whether you follow Cooking Classy’s style or make it your own, the creamy interior and golden topping make it an unforgettable part of any meal.

Try it out with your favorite cheese blends, experiment with spices, and don’t be afraid to personalize the dish. You’ll find it quickly becomes a family favorite for holidays and beyond.

Want to take your yellow squash casserole to the next level? Check out these layering tips from Bon Appétit to achieve perfect texture and flavor every time.

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