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Creamy Southern Squash Casserole Recipe with Crispy Ritz Topping Easy and Best

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A creamy and comforting southern squash casserole topped with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker crust, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups sliced yellow squash (about 3 medium squash)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred, 2% works fine)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (can substitute Greek yogurt)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice about 3 medium yellow squash into thin rounds, roughly 1/4-inch thick. Finely chop one small onion. (Prep time about 10 minutes)
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add sliced squash to the skillet and cook until tender but still firm, about 8-10 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper during cooking.
  4. In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes without browning.
  5. Slowly pour in 1 cup milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Remove sauce from heat and stir in 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Fold the sautéed squash and onions into the creamy sauce gently, keeping some texture.
  8. Pour the creamy squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
  9. Crush one sleeve of Ritz crackers into coarse crumbs. Mix crumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter.
  10. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the squash mixture.
  11. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  12. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the squash to avoid sogginess. Whisk roux constantly to prevent lumps. Use sharp cheddar for best flavor. If topping browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Let casserole rest before serving for best texture. For gluten-free, substitute flour and crackers accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: southern squash casserole, creamy squash casserole, Ritz cracker topping, comfort food, easy casserole, southern side dish

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-southern-squash-casserole-recipe-with-crispy-ritz-topping-easy-and-best/