The Art of Ultimate Southern Yellow Squash Casserole Perfection

Perfect Squash Cooking Mastery

Master the technique of cooking squash to ideal tenderness without mushiness.

Moisture Management Excellence

Learn the skill of properly draining vegetables to prevent watery casserole.

Creamy Sauce Perfection

Perfect the method of combining dairy ingredients for smooth, rich binding.

Topping Technique

Master the art of creating perfectly crispy, golden cracker crust.

Baking Temperature Strategy

Learn optimal baking techniques for set interior and crispy topping.

Southern Comfort Food Mastery Secrets for Perfect Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash Prep: Slice squash uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture throughout.

Moisture Control: Drain cooked squash thoroughly to prevent watery casserole.

Cheese Quality: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.

Topping Crunch: Don't skip the foil removal step - it's crucial for crispy topping.

Resting Time: Allow casserole to cool slightly so it sets and doesn't fall apart.

Make Ahead: Can assemble day ahead and refrigerate before final baking.

Easy Southern Yellow Squash Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping and Cheese

Name: Easy Southern Yellow Squash Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: For the Squash Base:; 3 pounds yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds; 1 large sweet onion, diced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Creamy Binding:; 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; For the Cheese Layer:; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; For the Seasoning Blend:; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; For the Cracker Topping:; 1 sleeve (about 35) buttery round crackers, crushed; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Bread Crumb Option:; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 3 tablespoons butter, melted; 1/4 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

The ultimate comfort food casserole featuring tender yellow squash layered with creamy cheese sauce and topped with a golden buttery cracker crust. This beloved Southern masterpiece combines the mild sweetness of fresh yellow squash with rich cheese, savory seasonings, and a perfectly crispy topping, creating an unforgettable family-style experience that elevates the classic squash casserole to extraordinary heights perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any time you crave the perfect balance of creamy vegetables, melted cheese, and satisfying crunch.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

35 Minutes

Total Time

55 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Squash Base:

3 pounds yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

1 large sweet onion, diced

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Binding:

1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 cup sour cream

2 large eggs, beaten

1/4 cup mayonnaise

For the Cheese Layer:

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Seasoning Blend:

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Cracker Topping:

1 sleeve (about 35) buttery round crackers, crushed

4 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Bread Crumb Option:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

3 tablespoons butter, melted

1/4 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Vegetable Enhancement:

1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley

For the Assembly Prep:

Butter for greasing casserole dish

9x13 inch baking dish

Aluminum foil

Cooking spray

For the Cooking Equipment:

Large skillet

Colander for draining

Large mixing bowl

Wooden spoon

For the Finishing Touches:

Fresh herbs for garnish

Extra cheese for serving

Hot sauce (optional)

Butter pats for richness

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

Wash yellow squash and slice into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds.

Heat butter in large skillet over medium heat until melted.

Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, 5 minutes.

Add sliced yellow squash to skillet with salt and pepper.

Cook squash, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10-12 minutes.

Drain excess liquid from cooked squash in colander thoroughly.

In large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.

Whisk in beaten eggs, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese until smooth.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika to mixture.

Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese and all the Parmesan cheese.

Fold in drained squash and onion mixture until evenly coated.

Add minced garlic, bell pepper, and fresh chives if using.

Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

In separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter.

Add Parmesan cheese and garlic powder to cracker mixture.

Sprinkle buttery cracker topping evenly over casserole surface.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes until bubbling.

Remove foil and bake additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Check that center is set and topping is crispy and golden.

Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to set properly.

Garnish with fresh parsley and chives before serving.

Serve hot as perfect complement to grilled meats or fried chicken.

Store leftovers covered in refrigerator and reheat in oven.

Easy Southern Yellow Squash Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping and Cheese

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Southern Yellow Squash Casserole Perfection

Easy Southern Yellow Squash Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping and Cheese

Ingredients

Instructions