Yellow Squash Casserole

A comforting, cheesy vegetable bake with a crispy cracker topping — perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

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📝 Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced yellow squash
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ¼ cup water
• 35 buttery round crackers, crushed
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ¾ cup milk
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter, for topping

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🔪 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine the sliced squash, chopped onion, and ¼ cup water.
3. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until squash is tender.
4. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers and shredded Cheddar cheese.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk.
7. Add the following to the squash mixture:
   • Half of the cracker-cheese mixture
   • The egg and milk mixture
   • The melted butter
   • Salt and pepper, to taste
     Mix everything until just combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the remaining cracker-cheese mixture evenly on top.
10. Dot with 2 tablespoons butter.
11. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
12. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving warm.

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⏱ Prep & Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

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✅ Tips

• Be sure to drain the squash well after cooking to avoid a soggy casserole.
• For a richer flavor, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged.
• Crush the crackers into small, even pieces for a uniform texture in the topping.
• Use real butter for best taste in both the mix and topping.

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🔄 Variations & Substitutions

• Zucchini option: Replace all or part of the yellow squash with zucchini.
• Cracker alternatives: Use whole-wheat crackers, panko, or cornflakes.
• Add flavor: Stir in a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or dried thyme.
• Make it creamier: Add a few spoonfuls of sour cream or a bit of cream cheese.
• Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a mild, gooey texture.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. You can fully assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I freeze it?
It’s best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be portioned, frozen, and reheated in the oven or microwave. The topping may lose a bit of its crunch.

Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, just thaw and drain thoroughly before using. You may need to reduce cooking time in the skillet.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a vegetable side with grilled chicken, baked fish, or roast beef.
• Pair it with green beans, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or Southern-style potlucks.