Old-School Squash Casserole
+7 photos

Old-School Squash Casserole

Squash casserole is welcome at potlucks, picnics, and holiday dinners everywhere. Its loved for its creamy sauce and crunchy, buttery cracker topping.

Ingredients

  • unsalted butter

    divided

    6 tbsp
  • yellow squash

    sliced ¼-inch thick, from 5 medium squash

    3 lb
  • medium-size yellow onion

    chopped, about 1 ½ cups

    1
  • kosher salt

    divided

    2 tsp
  • eggs

    lightly beaten

    2 large
  • container sour cream
    1
  • sharp cheddar cheese

    shredded, about 1 cup

    4 oz
  • swiss cheese

    shredded, about ½ cup

    2 oz
  • 5 cup mayonnaise
  • chopped fresh thyme
    2 tsp
  • 5 teaspoon black pepper
  • sleeves round buttery crackers

    coarsely crushed, such as ritz

    2
  • parmesan cheese

    shredded, about ¼ cup

    1 oz

Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare oven and baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 11- x 7-inch (2 quart) baking dish with cooking spray.

  2. 2

    Cook squash: Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add squash, onion, and 1 teaspoon of the salt; cook, stirring often, until center of squash is just tender and liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Drain liquid: Transfer mixture to a colander set over a bowl. Drain 5 minutes; discard any liquid.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Stir together casserole filling: Stir together eggs, sour cream, Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, mayonnaise, thyme, pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Gently fold in squash mixture.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Spoon casserole filling into baking dish: Spoon into a lightly greased 11- x 7-inch (2-quart) baking dish.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Make cracker topping: Microwave remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a medium-size microwavable bowl on HIGH until melted, about 25 seconds. Toss together crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until combined.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Sprinkle topping over casserole:

    Step 7
  8. 8

    Bake and serve: Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

    Step 8
Old-School Squash Casserole
+7

Old-School Squash Casserole

4.9(84)

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Based on 84 ratings

southernliving.com
4.9(84 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving that comforting side dish that always disappears first at family gatherings? This Old-School Squash Casserole, with its irresistibly creamy filling and golden, buttery cracker topping, is a timeless crowd-pleaser for any occasion—from casual potlucks to elegant holiday dinners.

What makes this Old-School Squash Casserole truly stand out is the harmonious blend of rich dairy—sour cream, sharp cheddar, Swiss, and a touch of mayonnaise—that creates an incredibly luscious texture. This decadent base is perfectly balanced by savory yellow onion and aromatic fresh thyme, adding depth to the sweet yellow squash. The secret to its undeniable appeal lies in the contrast of the smooth squash base with that signature crunchy, cheesy cracker crust.

Prepare for a symphony of textures and flavors. You'll enjoy tender, sweet yellow squash enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce with savory hints of onion and earthy thyme. Each spoonful is punctuated by the delightful crunch of the golden-brown cracker topping, creating a truly satisfying bite. This side dish is designed to be comforting and approachable, a true testament to classic home cooking, guaranteed to bring a warm, nostalgic feeling to your table.

Want to make it your own? Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère for an extra nutty note, or a spicier cheddar for a subtle kick in the creamy filling. While buttery crackers are traditional, you could try crushed cornbread for a rustic touch or even a savory breadcrumb mix for a different texture. Feel free to adjust the amount of fresh thyme to your preference, or introduce a pinch of dried sage for an autumnal twist.

This Old-School Squash Casserole is the quintessential side dish for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, or any gathering where comfort food is king. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or any potluck spread, adding a touch of golden warmth and cheer to the table.

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