Squash casserole is a beloved comfort dish that combines the natural sweetness of squash with a creamy, cheesy base and a crunchy topping made from buttery Ritz crackers. It’s the perfect recipe for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you want a tasty side dish that’s easy to make.
The combination of fresh squash, creamy cheese, and buttery Ritz crackers creates a tasty blend that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With simple steps and common ingredients, you can make this delicious casserole quickly, making it a favorite in your recipe collection.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or someone looking for your next favorite family recipe, this recipe guide will teach you everything you need to make the best squash casserole with Ritz crackers.
Why Do People Love Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers?
One of the reasons people love squash casserole with Ritz crackers is that it’s both comforting and versatile. It takes simple, easy-to-find ingredients and turns them into a dish that feels indulgent yet homely.
The smooth texture of the casserole, combined with the crunchy cracker topping, creates a mix that many people enjoy. You can also change this dish by adding onions, garlic, or bell peppers, so it can fit different tastes and dietary needs.
Another reason for its popularity is that squash is a highly nutritious vegetable that is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet when added to meals like this casserole.
Ingredients for Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
If you’re ready to make this delicious casserole, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash (sliced)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a meatier flavor)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers, crushed)
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional spices (paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor)
Nutritional Information of Squash Casserole
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving* | % Daily Value** |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal | 11% |
| Total Fat | 15 g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg | 30% |
| Sodium | 500 mg | 21% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15 g | 5% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g | 8% |
| Sugars | 4 g | – |
| Protein | 7 g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 450 mcg | 50% |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 150 mg | 15% |
| Iron | 1 mg | 6% |
Required Equipment
Before you start making this you have the following equipment ready:
- Large skillet – To cook the squash and onions.
- Mixing bowl – To mix the creamy filling.
- 9×13 casserole dish – Just the right size for this dish.
- Cheese grater – For grating fresh cheese, if needed.
- Potato masher or fork – Optional, to lightly mash the cooked squash.
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F to bake the casserole.
Recipe for Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Now that you have all the ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the recipe for this delicious squash casserole with Ritz crackers.
Step 1: Prepare the Squash and Onions
Start by heating your oven to 350°F. In a big pan on medium heat, cook the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions until they are soft and see-through. This takes about 10 minutes. Mix now and then to cook evenly. When done, take off the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten eggs, sour cream, can of cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix these ingredients together until they form a smooth and creamy mixture. You can use a whisk or a spoon for mixing.
Step 3: Combine and Season
Add your cooked squash and onions to the creamy mix in the bowl. Stir everything together gently until it is all well mixed. Then, add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for more flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In another small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well covered with butter. This will be the crunchy topping for your casserole.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the squash mix into a 9×13 casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttered cracker mix on top of the squash. Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and are perfect for reheating later.
Congratulations! 🎊 You have successfully made a delicious squash casserole with Ritz crackers. This dish goes well as a side dish with many main dishes, like grilled chicken or roasted meat. It can also serve as a vegetarian main dish.
If you love this type of dessert, then you should also check out our other famous dessert recipes like Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake and Hershey’s Cocoa Brownie Recipe. These classics are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Find the recipes on our website and start baking today.
And don’t forget to follow Yumy Recipe on Pinterest for more delicious and yummy recipes.
Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 casserole dish
- Cheese grater
- Potato masher or fork
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash sliced
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken for a meatier flavor
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers about 30 crackers, crushed
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional spices paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Squash and Onions
- Start by heating your oven to 350°F. In a big pan on medium heat, cook the sliced yellow squash and chopped onions until they are soft and see-through. This takes about 10 minutes. Mix now and then to cook evenly. When done, take off the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten eggs, sour cream, can of cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix these ingredients together until they form a smooth and creamy mixture. You can use a whisk or a spoon for mixing.
Step 3: Combine and Season
- Add your cooked squash and onions to the creamy mix in the bowl. Stir everything together gently until it is all well mixed. Then, add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for more flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In another small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well covered with butter. This will be the crunchy topping for your casserole.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the squash mix into a 9×13 casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the buttered cracker mix on top of the squash. Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and are perfect for reheating later.
Notes
Creative Serving Ideas for Squash Casserole
If you want to add a twist to your squash casserole with Ritz crackers, here are some simple ways you can serve it:
- Add Protein: Make your squash casserole healthier by adding cooked chicken or turkey. This can also make the dish a filling main meal.
- Add Vegetables: Make your dish tastier and more colorful by adding veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Experiment with Cheese: Change up the taste by experimenting with different types of cheese. Try using mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for unique flavor profiles.
- Gluten-Free Choice: Swap the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or panko for a tasty gluten-free version.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives to elevate the flavors. Spices like cumin or curry powder can also add an unexpected twist.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or freshly baked bread to complete the meal. These pairings offer complementary textures and flavors.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you may not), here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat separate portions in the microwave.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the completely cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat it using the instructions above.
- Texture Consideration: Keep in mind that freezing may change the texture slightly, especially the cracker topping, which might lose some of its original crispiness.
Tips for Making the Perfect Squash Casserole
If you want to make sure your squash casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Pick Fresh Squash: Choose firm, bright yellow squash without any wilting or spots. Fresh squash tastes best and has the best texture.
- Uniform Slicing: Slice the squash evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices.
- Cooking the Squash First: Fry the squash and onions before baking to get rid of extra water and stop the casserole from being runny.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t shy away from seasoning. Taste-test the creamy mixture to ensure a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Cut Down Cooking Time: Watch the casserole while it bakes to stop it from overcooking and drying out. Aim for a golden brown top and a creamy middle.
- Customize the Crumb Topping: Add different herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the cracker mixture for an enhanced crunch and flavor.
- Test for Doneness: Before removing from the oven, test the casserole’s doneness by checking that the center is set and not runny.
- Let it Rest: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. This will help it set and make serving easier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, squash casserole with Ritz crackers is a delightful dish that combines comfort with creativity. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a filling main course, its flexibility means it can be adjusted to fit different tastes and dietary needs.
By using fresh ingredients and trying out different flavors, you can turn this simple casserole into a special meal. The tips and changes shared here can help you make your dish great every time which makes it a hit at family gatherings or for weeknight dinners.
Remember to store any leftovers properly so you can enjoy the tasty flavors again. Feel free to try new serving ideas to keep this classic dish fun.
FAQs
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, you can swap yellow squash for zucchini. Zucchini has a similar feel and taste, so it works well as a replacement. Just cut it evenly and cook it the same way as yellow squash to keep the dish’s quality and consistency.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz crackers, or substitute with gluten-free panko. Make sure that all other ingredients, like broth or seasoning mixes, are also certified gluten-free to avoid accidental gluten contamination.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the squash casserole in advance. Assemble the dish completely, but hold off on baking. Cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, bake it in a preheated oven as the recipe says, adding a few more minutes to make sure it’s hot all the way through.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt. It has the same texture and tangy taste but less fat. You can also use mayonnaise or mix cream cheese with a little lemon juice for a rich, creamy feel. If you want a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream with a bit of lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
Why is my squash casserole watery?
A watery squash casserole usually happens because there is too much water in the squash. To fix this, cook the squash well before baking to get rid of extra water. You can also sprinkle a little salt on the squash and let it sit to draw out water, then drain or pat it dry. Use fresh squash and don’t overfill the casserole to keep it the right texture.
